For our Walnut Creek area patients, cavities or periodontal disease almost always develops between the teeth, causing a variety of common problems. That’s why the dentists and staff at Panoramic Dental really encourage all patients to floss at least once a day. Since the bristles of your toothbrush rarely reach in between your teeth, flossing is really the only way to make sure you are removing the food particles, bacteria, and plaque that can lodge and grow between your teeth. If your gums are red, swollen or pulling away from your teeth, chances are you need to up your flossing game.
Why Flossing Is Important
Flossing is one of the most important aspects of good oral health. Your Walnut Creek dentists note the specific ways flossing can help:
Prevents Gum Disease
One in eight Americans has some form of gum disease, most commonly caused by poor oral hygiene and insufficient flossing teeth on a regular basis. Removing plaque and food particles stuck in between your teeth helps prevent gingivitis, the first stage in gum disease. Left untreated gingivitis can turn into a more severe case of gum disease, called Periodontitis. Periodontitis can damage the gum’s soft tissue, and destroy the bone causing loose teeth.
Reduces bad breath
Not only does it give you needed ammunition in the fight against cavities and gum disease, but it can also rapidly reduce bad breath. When food gets stuck between your teeth it immediately begins the decaying process. Think about the smell of old food in your trash can….you get the picture.
Improves your overall health
Flossing your teeth can advance the overall health and strength of your gums. Regular flossing helps make gums stronger which can stop your gums from bleeding. is proven to promote healthier teeth and gums.
Types Of Dental Floss
There are many types of dental floss on the market today and, while they each tote their benefits of the other, research has proved that there is really not much difference in their effectiveness. Your Walnut Creek dentist can recommend the type and brand of floss that they think might work best in your individual situation. Floss comes in waxed and non-waxed. The waxed floss can sometimes glide between your teeth more easily and it comes in flavors. However, if you have tight space between your teeth, the non-waxed version may work better for you. Floss also now comes with built-in floss holders like floss picks, which makes it easy to travel with and disposing of. In the end, try different types of floss and stick with the one that works best for you. Always look for products that contain the ADA Seal of Acceptance so you know they have been evaluated for safety and effectiveness.
Flossing Your Teeth The Right Way
Now you understand the importance of flossing once per day. But do you really know the right way to floss? Here’s a guide to help our Walnut Creek patients floss at their best:
- Tear off a piece of floss that is around 16 to 18 inches long.
- Wrap the floss around your index fingers and hold tightly between that finger and your thumb.
- Starting with your upper front teeth, gently lead the floss between your teeth using a soft rubbing motion. Avoid snapping the floss into the gums.
- When the floss touches the gum line, bend it into a C shape next to one tooth. Gently push it into the space between the gum and the tooth.
- Move the floss back and forth against the tooth to remove any built-up plaque.
- Work the floss back away from the gum line and out from between those two teeth, removing any food particles as you work.
- Repeat this method between each set of two teeth on your upper teeth, then your lower teeth. Be sure to floss the teeth in the back side of your mouth, including the last tooth.
- Once you’re finished, throw the floss away. Never re-use floss as it will likely leave bacteria in your mouth and it could be more likely to break.
Get Started On Great Oral Health With Panoramic Dental Today!
If you have any questions about flossing, brushing or any other oral hygiene concern, your Walnut Creek dentists would love to hear from you. Our doctors are well-respected and highly-qualified and we pride ourselves in creating a family-oriented, inviting environment for all of our patients. We also offer affordable payment options to make great oral health available to all. Contact us today and schedule an appointment at (925) 934-3251. We look forward to you joining our dental family!