Have you flossed today? If not, you may still have a hint of breakfast in your smile! Did you know that without flossing, simple brushing may miss up to 35% of the surface of your teeth? From leafy greens to popcorn shells and caramel candy, flossing is one of the best ways to remove trapped food from the hard-to-reach spaces in your teeth.

Don’t wait for a cavity or toothache to encourage healthy flossing in your dental hygiene routine! Make a visit to your dentist to learn more about getting that “true clean” feeling with a careful teeth cleaning and exam. Once you start flossing regularly, it can become your favorite healthy habit!

Does Flossing Work?

Has a friend ever told you that you have something in your teeth? This embarrassing moment can be quickly remedied with a mad dash to the washroom to floss. Flossing removes even the debris you don’t see right away. Because it is more difficult to treat cavities that occur in the spaces between adjacent teeth, flossing is an excellent addition to regular brushing with fluoridated toothpaste and checkups at your local family dentist.

What Causes Cavities?

Food, bacteria and debris in the mouth break down over time, releasing harmful acids that wear on the gums and teeth. As the tooth enamel wears away, a small pocket or cavity forms in the tooth. If left untreated, dental caries (cavities) may progress and a root canal treatment may be needed. Brushing, flossing and visiting your dentist for a regular checkup are all excellent ways to maintain and encourage positive dental health.

Gum Disease: A Tip On Prevention

Most adults will experience having a cavity in their lifetime, and just as many may be treated for symptoms of gum disease. If you have ever felt itchy gums, sensitive teeth or noticed a pink color in the sink when you rinse, you may have experienced signs of gum disease, also known as periodontal disease or gingivitis. Flossing, as well as preventive care with dental fillings or sealants can have a dramatic impact on preventing these dental symptoms over time.

Ready To Floss? Here’s How To Start!

Do you still have that small box of floss from your last visit to the dentist? The good news is floss is easy to come by, and just as easy to use. After a few uses you may find yourself looking forward to that extra-clean feeling of flossing before bed or after your morning cup of coffee.

1. Start with a small strand of floss, about 18 inches in length. Wrap the floss over each middle finger, leaving a gap of 1-2 inches free.
2. Hold the floss tautly using your thumbs and index fingers. Slide the strand gently up and down between your teeth to remove buildup and debris.
3. To reach just below the gumline, curve the floss around the base of each tooth and remember to use clean sections of floss as you go.
4. Never snap or force the floss, which can be damaging to the gums or teeth. To remove the floss, guide it gently back and forth to bring it up and out over the teeth.

Have you learned something new about flossing? At Priti Naik DDS, we encourage all of our patients to ask questions and learn more about their dental health. When you are better informed about your dental care, it is easier to maintain good oral health and understand the importance of a good oral hygiene routine. As your local dentist in Vienna, we look forward to your visit to the dentist and the opportunity to care for your family. Give us a call to schedule your next appointment!