Do we need to floss?
There are many different opinions about flossing and its effects on our teeth. In fact a study was done on the effects of flossing and brushing your teeth from 1-3 months. You can detect bleeding gums in a few months, but cavities take more time. We know the effectiveness of flossing against gum disease so it is still worth flossing, but does it help against cavities?
Cavities and gum disease are mainly caused by plaque that accumulates on our teeth and gums. Dental plaque is made up of over 800 different kinds of bacteria living in your mouth, and brushing can’t get the leftover bacteria in between your teeth.
Once we stop brushing and flossing our teeth the minerals in our mouth start to harden onto our teeth and gums causing plaque, if that is left alone long enough dental calculus can form. No amount of brushing and flossing will get rid of dental calculus, only a visit to your dentist will get it off.
Why lookout for bleeding gums?
A dentist pokes around your gums to look for any bleeding which can be a sign of uncleaned plaque and/or calculus in the area. Your gums may bleed when you first start flossing, but if they continue to bleed after flossing for a few weeks you may need to see your dentist.
Bleeding gums indicate you’re at risk of developing advanced gum issues, called. This condition sees the foundations that hold your teeth in your jaw bone deteriorate, eventually causing your teeth to loosen and fall out.
I definitely should floss now, right?
Yes! Unless you have a large gap where flossing is ineffective or you have been instructed to do something different by your dentist.
Good flossing tips!
- Floss at least once a day
- Floss before you brush to help make it part of your routine
- Cut 30-40cm of regular floss for each use
- Wrap floss around one finger on each hand
- Slowly move the floss down towards the teeth to insure both teeth are clean
Keep in mind your gums may bleed from flossing in the beginning but over time you will get better and faster and your gums will build a tolerance. Keep flossing to keep those gums and teeth healthy!
