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.

Good oral hygiene starts with keeping your teeth and gums healthy by practicing good dental habits. Taking a little time each day to follow some of these healthy habits is key in preventing problems down the line, such as gum disease, cavities, and more. Maintaining good oral hygiene is also the first step in ensuring that you’re in good health overall. Following these healthy dental habit tips daily and having regular checkups with your dentist are two of the best practices to keep your smile healthy and happy.

Brush Twice a Day

For most people, it’s a given that brushing your teeth is the key to good dental health. However, there are many factors involved when it comes to proper brushing techniques. First, be sure to have the correct toothbrush. Always choose toothbrushes that have been certified by the American Dental Association (ADA) and try to replace your toothbrush every 3 to 4 months. When brushing, do so twice a day for at least two minutes each time. Use circular motions and remember to brush all sides of your teeth, as well as your tongue and inside of your mouth.

Floss Each Time You Brush

Flossing should be done every time you brush your teeth. It helps to remove any plaque or bacteria, especially in areas where your toothbrush may not reach. Flossing also reduces inflammation at the gum line and can help prevent gum disease. 

Drink Plenty of Water and Follow a Healthy Diet

What you eat and drink has a big impact on your oral and dental health. Limit the number of sugary foods and drinks you consume, as these can lead to cavities and are harmful to the enamel of your teeth. Drinking plenty of water can help rinse some of the acids from these sugary foods and drinks out of your mouth as well. 

Check-In with Your Dentist Regularly

Regular dental checkups and cleanings are necessary even for those who take the best care of their teeth. Dentists can perform thorough cleanings of your teeth to remove all possible plaque. They’ll also be able to check for any potential problems such as cavities or gum disease. Most insurance companies cover two dental checkups per year, so be sure to take advantage of this and schedule your dental appointment accordingly. 

At Cakmes Dental Studio, our number one goal is keeping patients feeling confident by ensuring that they are maintaining the best oral health possible. If you have any concerns about your teeth or gums, give our office a call to set up an appointment. In between dental checkups, be sure to follow these daily habits to promote a lifetime of good dental health!

Flossing daily is vital to your dental health. Brushing simply does not get all of the food out of your teeth, and neglecting to floss can significantly increase your chance for cavities and tooth decay. Some people who have dental conditions that make flossing more challenging think that taking this extra step in their dental hygiene doesn’t apply to them. This is not the case whatsoever. There are ways for everyone, no matter your dental condition, to floss each and every day. 

But what if I have braces?

There are actually multiple ways to floss while braces are on your teeth. You can weave the tip of the floss underneath the wire between two teeth, and floss normally. If you struggle to thread the floss under the wire, you can purchase floss with a stiff end to make this process easier. Yes, it will be more time consuming to floss with braces, but that is no reason to neglect such a vital part of your dental hygiene. You can also try a water flosser. Water flossers are powered by electricity and produce a forceful thin stream of water to remove the food build up between your teeth.

But what if I have sensitive gums?

Frankly, your gums bleed and become irritated when you do not floss often enough. If you begin flossing after you haven’t for an extended period of time, you will likely experience some minor pain and bleeding. However, the more you floss the stronger and healthier your gums become, so you should not experience any of these symptoms if you floss on a daily basis. If you consistently experience bleeding and pain when flossing regularly, you should contact your dentist for a professional opinion. In the meantime, consider switching to a softer and thinner floss to prevent as much trauma to your gums as possible.

But my child will lose his/her baby teeth anyway…

Children very frequently get cavities in their baby teeth, and it is often linked to a lack of flossing. No parent wants to undergo the stress and financial set back of a cavity when it can be prevented from the start. Plus, encouraging regular flossing can help children make it a habit for the rest of their life. It is generally said that children should start flossing between the ages of 5 and 7 years old.

At Cakmes Dental Studio, we understand the importance of flossing every single day, and we encourage you and every member of your family to make daily flossing a habit. However, if you skipped flossing too much and you are experiencing tooth pain or think you have a cavity, schedule your appointment with us now. We want to help you keep smiling and live your best life without the stress of dental problems.