When your dentist asks how often you floss, is your response, “Every once in awhile?” This is a common reaction, especially if you feel embarrassed or put on the spot, but even if you never floss, you aren’t alone.
Studies show that about 20% of Americans don’t floss their teeth. There are several reasons for this. Some people find flossing a hassle or too time-consuming, while others don’t have the finger mobility to get the job done. Regardless, if flossing isn’t part of your routine, it’s worth adding, as not doing it may increase your risk of cavities, gum disease, or other oral health problems.
At her practice in San Jose, California, dentist Irma Francisco, DDS, regularly counsels patients on the benefits of flossing. Here, she explains what flossing does, the risks of avoiding it, and tips for making it a habit.
Flossing may seem like a pain, but it’s one of the most effective ways to remove food particles and plaque stuck between your teeth or beneath your gums. Brushing helps to a point, but the bristles are too short to clean these hard-to-reach areas effectively.
Beyond removing plaque and food that can contribute to bad breath, daily flossing helps protect your oral health. Research consistently shows that people who floss daily are less likely to experience cavities, gum disease, and tooth loss.
Skipping flossing altogether or only doing it every once in awhile may not seem like a big deal. But neglecting to clean between your teeth or underneath your gums can increase the risk of oral health problems, including:
A growing body of research also suggests a link between skipping flossing and chronic health issues, like heart disease, diabetes, and Alzheimer’s. Studies are ongoing, but if daily flossing can help prevent even a fraction of these issues, it makes sense to make it part of your routine.
If you’re struggling to make flossing a habit, these simple tips may help:
Some people find flossing challenging or uncomfortable due to mobility issues or textural sensitivities. The good news is that you don’t necessarily have to use dental floss. Water flossers, floss picks, and dental tape offer similar benefits but don’t require as much dexterity. They can also be more comfortable to use.
Flossing adds an extra minute or two to your routine. If you’re too busy to complete it all at once, floss your bottom teeth in the morning and your upper teeth at night. You’ll still get all the benefits, just split over the course of the day.
Establishing a flossing habit takes time. You don’t have to floss every day when you’re starting out. Try doing it Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, or Tuesday and Thursday. As it becomes more natural, you can extend the practice to every day of the week, especially if you’re trying to maintain the results of regular dental cleanings.
Many people think that if their gums bleed or become irritated during flossing, they should stop it, but this is normal, especially if you’ve never flossed before. Gums get used to flossing over time, and the more you do it, the less inflamed they’ll be.
Implementing a new habit like flossing takes time and effort, but we can assist. To request a consultation, contact us today by calling the office or booking an appointment online. After an exam, Dr. Francisco can assess your gum health and make recommendations to incorporate flossing into your daily oral hygiene routine.
