Is flossing all it’s cracked up to be? In 2016, the Associated Press published a story claiming that there’s little proof that flossing is effective. Yet despite this news, your dentist in Joplin continues to recommend it as part of your daily oral hygiene routine. The reason is simple: the possible benefits of flossing have yet to be disproven – and they could make a big, big difference to your smile.
What Do We Know About Flossing?
While there is limited data to work with, some studies have found that flossing has the potential to help reduce certain oral health problems. One such study published in the Journal of Dental Hygiene concluded that flossing combined with brushing is linked with lower levels of gingivitis. Furthermore, a 2012 scholarly review stated that even though there was only a small amount of evidence for flossing, there was also zero evidence that it causes any major problems. In other words, whatever the benefits, it’s almost certain that it does more good than harm.
What Does Flossing Do for My Teeth?
Did you know that when you brush your teeth, you can only ever cover 60% of their total surface? The remaining 40% is between the gaps that your toothbrush can’t reach. When you floss, you can remove the food particles and plaque in these spaces that you wouldn’t be able to get at otherwise.
If the plaque between your teeth isn’t remove, it could eventually lead to gum disease. The earliest stage is gingivitis; your gums will become red and inflamed, and they’ll bleed rather easily. If you don’t have it treated in time, the disease could progress to periodontitis. Not only can this put you at risk of losing teeth, but the condition has also been linked to heart disease, respiratory infections, low birth weight in newborns and even Alzheimer’s.
Additionally, by leaving plaque on your teeth, you increase the risk of dental cavities that will eventually lead the tooth’s pulp to become infected.
What’s the Best Way to Floss?
While most dentists recommend brushing twice a day, in most cases you’ll only need to floss daily. The best time would be right before you go to bed to remove the food and plaque that’s built up throughout the day. Make sure the string has been waxed so that it won’t shred itself.
What if you have trouble using traditional string floss? Some patients find they just can’t reach every nook and cranny in their mouths with the usual techniques. Fortunately, there are other options such as water flossers and interdental brushes; these tools can do the same job as string floss, and you may find them much easier to use.
Remember, flossing works best when combined with other practices like regular brushing with a soft-bristled toothbrush. And of course, don’t forget to see your dentist at least twice a year to protect your smile!
About the Author
Dr. Dan K. Young is a member of the Southwest Missouri Dental Society and the Academy of General Dentistry. His practice, Young Family & Cosmetic Dentistry, offers excellent comprehensive care for patients who want to improve the appearance of their teeth while preventing cavities and gum disease. To schedule a preventive checkup, visit his website or call (417) 781-3440.