Many times when one goes to the dentist, the doctor or hygienist will emphasize “flossing”. While the majority of people brush their teeth every day, probably less than 20% floss daily. What is the difference in the long run as well as the benefit?
Think about how when one does floss. It can be hard to get the floss between the teeth due to tight contacts, access, etc. With that in mind, think about the bristles of a tooth bush passing the same area…there is likely no way the brush gets into these same areas to remove the buildup, food debris and bacteria infested plaque if it can be hard to even get floss in this same area.
By flossing daily, one is able to better remove these bacteria and debris, creating a healthier ongoing environment for the gum and adjacent tooth structure. In addition, a number of medical studies have shown the risk of the specific oral bacteria entering the blood stream and adhering to heart valves, putting one at risk of an infection known as endocarditis.
Therefore, spend some time for a week or two, standing in front of the mirror with a 12-14 inch length of floss between two hands (this length will allow you to wrap the ends several times around an index finger on each hand, enabling better control as you floss) and go between each tooth, extending the floss gently under the gum line along each surface. Initially, your gums may bleed, but likely after several days, the gum will stop or decrease bleeding because your flossing is reducing the amount of bacteria sitting there, resulting in less inflamed gum tissue and a healthier mouth overall. Stick with it…it will get easier everyday and in a short time, hopefully you will realize the task of flossing is really not a challenge!
One can brush the teeth until the cows come home, but unless you are flossing, the cows will surely see your future decay and bleeding gums….