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“Have you been flossing regularly?”
That dreaded question comes around inevitably each time you visit the dentist. And for many of us, there's a good chance the answer is no.
Estimates suggest that only about half of Canadians floss routinely, and many don't floss at all.
Why don't people floss?
It varies. For some people, flossing is awkward because they have trouble getting the floss between their teeth, particularly at the back of the mouth. People with poor dexterity or those wearing corrective devices, such as braces, may find this to be especially difficult.
Others simply find flossing unpleasant or uncomfortable, and some find it flat-out gross.
And then there are those who just don't think flossing is really necessary – and they have good reason to feel this way!
Recent studies have cast doubt on the advantages of flossing for oral health. Nevertheless, a lot of experts still regard flossing as being a crucial part of a complete and successful oral hygiene regimen.
If you're wondering why that is, and whether you should still be flossing, read on.
Yes, you should still floss.
Food particles can get stuck between our teeth when we eat. These particles attract bacteria, which break down to form plaque. Plaque, in turn, can quickly harden into tartar on your teeth, which can only be removed by a professional dental cleaning. Plaque buildup can cause gingivitis, cavities, and tooth decay.
While brushing your teeth helps to remove food particles and bacteria from the surfaces of your teeth, your toothbrush cannot reach the spaces between your teeth or under your gums. Flossing aids in the removal of food particles, bacteria, and plaque from these spaces.
Routine removal helps prevent plaque from hardening into tartar, which is why dental professionals recommend brushing and flossing together as a complete at-home oral hygiene routine. Flossing can also help prevent bad breath (halitosis). Because oral bacteria can cause bad breath, removing it will naturally help keep your breath smelling better.
Our dentists agree with The Canadian Dental Association that flossing at least once a day with dental floss, an interdental brush, or a water pick is an important part of a good dental hygiene routine.
If you're not flossing regularly, start working into your daily routine; your dentist will be thrilled! And in the long term, there's a good chance you will be, too.