How to Floss Your Way to Healthier Teeth and Gums

Do you often skip flossing when you’re in a rush? Only 16% of surveyed Americans say they floss on a regular basis. Meanwhile, 20% report flossing only when they feel something is stuck between their teeth, and about 8% claim they never floss. 

After we switched from a hunter-gatherer society to an agricultural society, our dental health changed for the worse. However, we counteract some effects of modern diets by brushing and flossing regularly. 

To help you prevent tooth decay and gum disease, we asked our team at Goodman Dental Center to explain why flossing is critical for maintaining dental hygiene. 

Why you shouldn’t skip flossing

After a meal, you may feel a sticky film building up on the surface of your teeth. The bacteria that compose this film break down the carbohydrates and starch in your mouth, and then they release acids that wear down tooth enamel, eventually leading to cavities. 

The sticky film can also harden and cause tartar to develop. Tartar is yellow to brown staining of the teeth caused by calcified deposits made of bacteria and food debris. Only professionals using special tools can remove tartar from teeth. 

Flossing can prevent the development of cavities and tartar. Even animals in the wild floss their teeth. For example, macaques, a species of monkey found in Thailand, use their body hairs to dislodge food debris stuck between their teeth. 

When and how to floss 

Ideally, you should brush and floss after every meal. Each time you eat, the bacteria in your mouth release acids to break down food particles. The more acid your teeth are exposed to, the higher your risk for developing tooth decay. 

If you’re a snacker, you may find it more difficult to brush and floss throughout the day. Limiting your snacks may make it easier to keep your teeth cleaner. 

If you have braces or simply want to make flossing more comfortable, you can opt for a water flosser or an electric flosser. 

People with less space between their teeth may also benefit from using unwaxed floss, as the threads are thinner and easier to use in the cramped interdental space.

Get a professional dental cleaning 

Poor dental hygiene is associated with more serious health conditions such as diabetes and heart disease. Our team can help you get a sparkling smile with professional dental cleaning. Regular professional cleanings prevent tooth decay and gum disease. Even patients who floss can benefit from dental cleanings. 

Our team does more than clean your teeth. We also examine your teeth for tooth decay, and we can screen for oral cancer.

Are you ready to have healthier and whiter teeth? Contact us to schedule an appointment for a professional dental cleaning.