Poor dental hygiene produces immediate consequences that encourage proper care of your mouth. From cavities and gum disease to yellow teeth and bad breath, most people are sure to brush their teeth, use mouthwash, and floss regularly to avoid negative repercussions. Well, maybe not so much that last one!
According to the National Library of Medicine, 68% of American adults reported flossing at least once weekly- a statistic wildly lower than the recommended by medical professionals. Many adults claim that they don’t get food stuck between their teeth; therefore, it’s a waste of time to floss- but they would be wrong. Even microscopic particles can cause long-term damage to your health. Others cite their reason for not flossing is out of pure inconvenience and not wanting to take the extra time out of their day. As much as some patients dislike flossing, it is a vital part of the oral hygiene regimen. Let’s take a closer look at why and when the best time to floss is!
So why is flossing important? Flossing removes plaque build-up and food from between teeth and gums. As a result, it drastically reduces the chances of cavities, gum disease, periodontal disease, bad breath, and even heart failure. Dentists recommend that you floss twice daily, but should you floss before or after brushing your teeth?
According to dentists, the common consensus is that flossing is more effective before brushing your teeth.
Flossing loosens food particles and plaque, making it easier for your toothbrush to remove the remaining plaque from your teeth. So, floss removes the large and challenging-to-reach particles, and brushing does away with the remainder.
Even if you have all the excuses for skipping flossing in your oral hygiene routine, you should still consider its effects on your health. Browse through Cakmes Dental Studio’s resources to learn more about common illnesses seen from poor dental care and how to treat them.