According to most dental experts, everyone should floss daily, in addition to brushing your teeth. Flossing can remove plaque and other debris from areas your toothbrush cannot reach. Plaque buildup can cause tooth decay and gum disease. Flossing is absolutely essential, especially for those that are genetically predisposed to having minimal amounts of saliva propensity toward developing cavities. Once you start to floss regularly, you will notice healthier gums and your teeth will look great and last longer if you floss right after you brush.

Choosing The Right Dental Floss

You’ll see two types of dental floss: single filament and nylon. Nylon can be waxed or unwaxed in a variety of flavors. Nylon floss is made of multiple strands of nylon material. This means that it can tear, shred or catch on sharp teeth. Although single filament floss costs more than nylon, it can slide between teeth in tight spaces and areas. Single filament floss is not easily shredded or torn, unlike nylon.

The Importance Of Regular Flossing

It doesn’t matter what floss you use, as long as you floss regularly, you can remove food and debris from your teeth. You will be surprised at how much food and debris flossing can remove if you have never done it before. Every dentist recommends flossing because it can reach places where even the smallest toothbrush can’t. Dental flossing is essential because food and debris can build up between your teeth.

How To Avoid Bleeding Gums

One of the main problems with flossing is bleeding gums. The floss can rub against your gums if it gets between your teeth or around your gums. This is a common mistake. Many people stop flossing immediately, often for good. Bleeding can be very common and should be expected when flossing. However, if you floss regularly, this will gradually lead to gums that are much more durable that will no longer bleed when you do daily flossing.

Why Brushing Is Simply Not Enough

You don’t get to all the food particles and other debris you need when you brush your teeth. As all toothbrushes miss difficult to reach areas, they are not designed to reach every part of your mouth. The plaque and debris that is left behind by toothbrushes will build up over time, eventually leading to decay or cavities. You will need to floss regularly in order to remove this plaque and debris before it becomes more severe.

Push Through Your Fear Of Flossing

You should get over your fear of flossing because you have been afraid of the bleeding. Brushing and flossing your teeth is a must to keep your gums and teeth healthy. Your dentist can help you keep your teeth and gums healthy. However, it is up to your home hygiene to floss and brush your teeth regularly. You’ll be amazed at how clean your gums and teeth will look if you floss daily.

If you are currently in need of a checkup, or if your teeth need to be cleaned, Dr. Sawyer is available to assist you. The friendly receptionists at Dr. Sawyer’s office will help you to schedule an appointment in the near-future.