Become A Floss Boss!

We all know brushing your teeth multiple times per day is important. We’ve all been told the flossing daily is also important. But how important is it really? Spoiler alert: it’s VERY important!

Here are a few reasons why flossing should be a high priority part of you daily dental hygiene routine:

• The space in between your teeth that regular brushing tends to miss account for about 40% of each tooth’s surface area. Without flossing, plaque and bacteria can build up here, and with them comes the increased risk of cavities. Flossing between your teeth at least once a day can help get rid of hidden food particles, plaque buildup, and bacteria, reducing you risk of cavities
• Gingivitis is the early stage of gum disease. Without flossing in between your teeth, gingivitis causing bacteria can take root, which can result in inflamed gums and bleeding. Without proper treatment, brushing and flossing, gingivitis can lead to a more serious infection known as periodontitis, which can cause major problems for you teeth and could have other negative effects throughout the body.
• Bad breath can also be caused by a lack of flossing. Food particles that are stuck between your teeth will start to decay, and if you don’t remove these decaying particles it can lead to bad breath.

Here is a quick guide to proper flossing:

1. Break off about 18 to 24 inches of dental floss. To hold the floss correctly, wind most of the floss around both of your middle fingers. Leave only about 1 to 2 inches of floss for your teeth.
2. Next, hold the floss taut with your thumbs and index fingers.
3. Place the dental floss in between two teeth. Gently glide the floss up and down, rubbing it against both sides of each tooth. Don’t glide the floss into your gums. This can scratch or bruise your gums.
4. As the floss reaches your gums, curve the floss at the base of the tooth to form a C shape. This allows the floss to enter the space between your gums and your tooth.
5. Repeat the steps as you move from tooth to tooth. With each tooth, use a new, clean section of floss.

In short, proper flossing prevents many oral health issues from becoming serious. If you have any questions about flossing or other oral care, feel free to reach out to your friendly dental staff at Wurzbach Parkway Family Dental by calling (210) 879-3449!