You remember to brush your teeth diligently twice a day. You like to think you’re on top of your oral hygiene, but you forget to floss sometimes. Unfortunately, this means that your oral health isn’t in as good a shape as you think it is. Flossing might be annoying, and many of us forget or even outright neglect to do it. How important is it actually? A dentist in Norman is here to set the record straight about flossing.
What Is the Truth About Flossing?
The Associated Press recently reported that flossing doesn’t actually work, and that it isn’t really important. However, any dental professional will tell you that’s a lie. The report claims that there is little to no scientific evidence that cleaning between your teeth actually works to prevent cavities and gum disease. However, the Journal of Dental Hygiene has published research stating that flossing, along with tooth brushing, helps reduce gingivitis at one, three, and six months. However, it does not help reduce plaque at one and three months. So, what does that mean for you?
What Happens If I Don’t Floss?
When you go without flossing, you’re at risk for two major problems: cavities between your teeth, and gingivitis. Bacteria in plaque love to accumulate between your teeth and create cavities, and flossing is the only way to remove them. These bacteria can also irritate the gum tissue and cause gingivitis.
When left untreated, gingivitis can turn into gum disease, a condition where bacteria attack the structures supporting the teeth. Eventually, this could make your teeth become loose enough to fall out! In addition, the bacteria create holes in between your teeth and gums through which they can enter your bloodstream and wreak havoc on other parts of your body. Because of this, gum disease has been linked with multiple other health issues, such as:
- Diabetes
- Pregnancy and birth complications
- Heart disease
- Alzheimer’s
How Can I Keep My Oral Health in Good Shape?
In order to prevent those health problems from occurring, it’s crucial that you take good care of your oral health. Besides flossing every day, make sure you:
- Clean your teeth twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste
- Avoid smoking or chewing tobacco
- Cut back on sugary foods and beverages
- Don’t use your teeth as tools to open or hold things
- Visit your dentist at least twice a year for a regular checkup and cleaning
As you can see, flossing is a lot more important that it might seem. Be sure to add it to your daily nighttime routine. Your teeth will thank you in the future.
About the Author
Dr. Bobby Carmen has achieved a Mastership with the Academy of General Dentistry, a distinction that very few dentists have earned. He is also a Fellow with the International Congress of Oral Implantology and the Dental Organization for Conscious Sedation. For more advice on flossing, contact him on his website or by calling (405)-364-2200.