Even if you take good care of your gums and teeth at home, you still might have bacteria in your mouth. The byproducts of the food you intake, mixes up with the oral bacteria to buildup problem causing plaques and tartars. Plague and tartar growth can result in cavities, periodontal diseases and tooth decays. To keep permanent tooth decay and other oral problems at bay, make it a practice of removing plaques regularly.
Here comes the importance of flossing!
Most people underappreciate flossing. Though they are aware of this recommended practice for flawless oral health, yet they ignore flossing. According to dental studies, 1 in 5 people also does not believe in the concept of brushing twice daily. The Airlie Smile Care team strongly stands by the fact that flossing is critical to the maintenance of perfect teeth.
Just like brushing, flossing too is the key to healthy teeth and gum. It removes food byproducts from your gum line and hence prohibits the formation of plaque and tartar. With regular flossing, you can effectively prevent two major dental issues:
- Gingivitis
- Cavities between your teeth
Clinical Microbiology stated that over 1,000 bacteria are present in dental plaque, which in long term irritate gum tissues, causing inflamed and bleeding gums. These harmful bacteria also destroy the enamel of the teeth, forming cavity.
Backup your daily brushing practice with flossing. Here are some of the benefits of this healthy practice:
- Removes food debris
- Prevents bacterial growth in between the teeth
- Stops plaque and tartar buildup
- Prevents bad breath from leftover food particles
- Effective than brushing alone as it removes debris from the spaces between teeth and gumline
- Prevents periodontal diseases, tooth decay and root canal issues
But, before making flossing your regular practice, learn its correct technique because without it you might find it a painful affair.
- Use a floss of 15 to 18 inches long. Wrap its each end around your index fingers and slide it between your teeth.
- Move the floss up and down to scrub the area. Make sure it scrubs both the sides of the teeth. After completion move on to the next set of teeth.
- For wider spaces between teeth, use thicker flosses, which are also known as super floss.
- One can also use soft plaque removers to clean between your teeth.
- Floss your teeth gently to prevent bleeding.
Some dental or oral conditions prevent you from flossing manually at home. Such conditions are as follows:
- If you have sensitive teeth and gums that bleed easily.
- If you have braces and dentures you need specialized professional floss.
- Children till 5-7 years of age.
Dr Cormac of Airlie Smile Care advises to floss your teeth once a day before going to bed. This healthy habit not only removes food and plaque but also bless you with a healthy smile. Use waxed floss to regular ones, as it won’t shred between your teeth.
For more tips on flossing contact experienced dentists at Airlie Smile Care. Call today at 0749467600.