Do I Really Need to Floss?

With so much emphasis placed on brushing, it can be tempting to overlook the importance of flossing. After all, if a patient thoroughly brushes throughout the day, is it really necessary to floss? The short answer is yes. Patients who do not floss are more susceptible to dental decay. Plaque and bacteria levels can compound in the oral cavities of even the most diligent brushers. Here, we will discuss how this happens and the necessity of flossing.

Why Is Flossing Essential if I Regularly Brush My Teeth?

Brushing is essential, but it does not negate the need for flossing. While toothbrushes reach more immediate surfaces, there are crevices that the bristles simply cannot get to. The narrow areas between the teeth catch food particles that cause nasty buildup over time. Without flossing, plaque continues to form, and bacteria consume remaining food particles. Patients who regularly brush and floss must still keep up with periodic dental cleanings since only an experienced hygienist can reach certain areas of buildup. If this is the case with those who brush and floss, imagine the buildup in an individual who only brushes.

What Happens if I Neglect Flossing?

Plaque accumulates between the teeth and gums when flossing is neglected. In turn, this can cause gingivitis, which is an early stage of gum disease. Symptoms of gingivitis include red and swollen gums that sometimes bleed when brushed. Left untreated, gingivitis can develop into periodontal disease, which is the advanced stage of gum disease. During this stage, gums can begin receding, teeth become loose due to lack of structural support, and they may even fall out. Brushing, flossing, and regular dental exams and cleanings at El Segundo Modern Dentistry and Orthodontics can help prevent this from occurring.

How Does El Segundo Modern Dentistry and Orthodontics Treat Gingivitis and Gum Disease?

Patients with gingivitis may benefit from a dental cleaning and renewed oral hygiene efforts. However, in the case of gum disease, El Segundo Modern Dentistry and Orthodontics will need to take other measures. For example, we may need to perform a deep cleaning, and some patients may need more frequent cleanings. We will assess your unique situation and create a treatment plan that is best for you.

Does El Segundo Modern Dentistry and Orthodontics Recommend I Floss Before or After Brushing My Teeth?

Most dental experts note the benefits of flossing before brushing your teeth. Flossing beforehand loosens food particles that can then be swept away by your toothbrush. Doing this is more effective and cleans the oral cavity better than if you had brushed your teeth first.

Should I Floss More Than Once Per Day?

While many patients floss once per day, some may prefer to floss twice per day. Flossing more often can be helpful if food particles become easily stuck between your teeth or if you eat something sticky or stringy. However, it is important not to over-floss or to floss incorrectly. Too much brushing and flossing or incorrect flossing can irritate or create small tears in the gum line.

What is the Best Way to Floss?

First, make sure you have plenty of floss, roughly around 18 inches. Next, you will want to wrap it around both of your middle fingers, leaving approximately an inch between your thumb and forefingers. Finally, begin flossing by gently sliding it between your teeth and making a “C” shape. Be careful to clean all the way down to the gum line and to get each side of the tooth. Slide the floss up and down several times before proceeding to the next one.

Can I Use Flossing Aids?

If you have trouble holding floss between your fingers, there are many flossing products you may benefit from. The important thing is that despite which type of floss or flossing aid you choose, you are flossing daily. It may take some time to find which flossing aid works best for you, and that is okay. Whether it is waxed floss, unwaxed floss, floss picks, a floss threader, or a water flosser, it is important to maintain a thorough oral hygiene regimen.

What Does It Mean If My Gums Bleed While Flossing?

If you are not used to flossing, your gums may bleed slightly at first. However, this should not last. If your gums persistently bleed when you brush or floss, it is best to make an appointment at El Segundo Modern Dentistry and Orthodontics right away. Early treatment is essential to keep gingivitis from developing into gum disease.

Should Children Floss?

Children are susceptible to tooth decay and cavities, and brushing should be accompanied by flossing. Once a child’s teeth begin to fit closely together, it is important to fight plaque buildup by teaching them to floss. Until they are a bit older, they may also need some help in doing so. If you are unsure if it is time for your child to begin flossing, El Segundo Modern Dentistry and Orthodontics can help you determine this.

Will El Segundo Modern Dentistry and Orthodontics Teach My Child to Floss at Their Next Dental Visit?

El Segundo Modern Dentistry and Orthodontics will be happy to demonstrate the best way to floss upon your child’s next dental visit. We take pride in educating our patients about the best ways to maintain their oral health and prevent issues like dental decay, cavities, gingivitis, and periodontal disease.

Do You Have Flossing Questions for El Segundo Modern Dentistry and Orthodontics?

Flossing is imperative in every good oral hygiene regimen. In fact, a lack of flossing can eventually lead to devastating dental issues like periodontal disease. Once a child’s teeth begin coming in and are close together, they can benefit from flossing as well. In addition, El Segundo Modern Dentistry and Orthodontics will be happy to demonstrate the best way for your child to floss at their next visit to our office in El Segundo, CA. Whether you floss once or twice a day, the important thing is that it is done correctly. We are here to help our patients have the best oral health possible!

If you are unsure of the best way to floss or have more questions about flossing, do not hesitate to contact our office in El Segundo, CA at (424) 277-2671!