When we tell the patients in our Tampa dentist office to be sure they floss daily, we often hear objections like, ‘ flossing takes too long’ or ‘flossing is too difficult’. While flossing does take a little extra time and effort, it is well worth it – especially when you consider that the time you don’t take to floss may lead to time you spend in the dental chair getting treatment for dental problems.
If you are one of the many who have an aversion to flossing, we want to offer you five important reasons to be a boss with the floss:
- Flossing removes plaque that your toothbrush can’t.
No matter how well you brush, there are areas between the teeth that those bristles just cannot reach. Dental floss penetrates those areas and clears away the food residue that would develop into plaque.
- Flossing helps prevent gum disease.
Flossing removes food particles that lodge between the gums and teeth. Removing these irritants keeps gums strong, healthy and resistant to bleeding and gum disease.
- Flossing helps keep your breath fresh.
Food particles trapped between teeth and at the gum line create bacteria, which lead to bad breath. By flossing away all of those nasty particles, you help to keep your breath fresh.
- Flossing removes embarrassing things from your smile.
We’ve all had those moments when we’ve wondered, ‘do I have something stuck in my teeth?’ Taking a few moments to floss after meals will give you and your smile a little extra confidence.
- Flossing can be easy with the right tools.
If you avoid flossing because your teeth are very close together or because you have a hard time reaching in your mouth, there are two things you should know about – waxed dental floss and dental floss picks. Both of these items can make the job of flossing a breeze.
If you have any questions about flossing or dental floss products, let us know! We will be happy to help at your next appointment!