Why is flossing important?
Recently, there were news reported that there was little scientific evidence to support the benefits of flossing your teeth. Despite this news, however, both the Australian Dental Association (ADA) and the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) still recommend flossing daily because a lack of strong evidence doesn’t equate to a lack of effectiveness.
So, many wonder, why does my dentist always nag me about flossing? Why is flossing important? Let’s find out.
Why is flossing important?
Flossing helps prevent decay in between your teeth
Almost half the surface area of your teeth are in contact with the adjacent teeth. These are areas where toothbrush can’t reach. Plaque contains acid-producing bacteria which can cause dental decay. Even if you do the best job in brushing your teeth, the plaque trapped between your teeth will stay on your teeth after brushing. Interdental cleaning is proven to help remove food debris between teeth that can contribute to plaque build-up.
Flossing prevents gum diseases
Removing plaque that are attached to the gums can reduce inflammation caused by the bacteria. Gum inflammation is a sign of gum disease. Gum diseases may present themselves as redness of the gum, swollen gums, bleeding gums, bad breathe, loose teeth or a combination of these symptoms. One of the reasons people experience gum bleeding and pain during flossing is because of gum disease. Flossing daily with the appropriate techniques should reduce the gum bleeding and pain overtime.
Low cost, great benefits
Dental floss is inexpensive and easy to find at any chemist. And it only takes a few minutes and—for most people—is relatively painless.
Floss everyday
Flossing should be part of your oral hygiene routine along with brushing. You should be flossing once a day, for at least two minutes.
Do children need to floss?
Flossing is not only for adults. Children should start cleaning between their teeth as soon as they have two teeth in contact but until the age of 10, it’s best if the parent does the flossing as younger children don’t have the manual dexterity needed to floss effectively.