I have heard so many patients tell our dentists and hygienists that they “do not floss as often as they should” but brush twice daily.
Is it because they struggle to do it or because they do not understand the importance of doing it?
Many patients also complain that flossing is uncomfortable and makes their gums bleed. Well… healthy gums do not bleed and should not be tender, swollen or red.
Flossing and interdental cleaning is just as essential as tooth brushing.
Brushing alone does not clean all the surfaces of your teeth but only around 65% of them.
Some areas between the teeth cannot be reached by a tooth brush, leaving behind harmful plaque bacteria which can cause gum disease and decay.
Many mouthwashes claim to clean in those ”hard to reach places” but this is simply not true as plaque can only be removed by positive friction.
Extensive research has shown the link between oral bacteria and heart health so a really thorough daily cleaning routine has never been so crucial.
The solution? Flossing I’m afraid.
Flossing is not so much about removing debris as it is agitating the bacteria, stopping it sticking to the tooth surface thus protecting the tooth’s foundations.
Interdental cleaning does not have to be tricky, many products are now available on the market: dental floss holders, interdental brushes, waterpick, air flossers and the practice’s favourite, the single tufted brush.
Here at Absolute dental our hygienists Maureen and Rachael can help you not only to perfect your cleaning technique and provide you with the right cleaning aids for YOUR teeth but also to stay away from the dentist by helping you to improve your oral health and protect your teeth and gums.
The secret is to remove harmful plaque from every surface of every tooth every day…so keep calm and floss daily!
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