A survey conducted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention asked people about their flossing habits and found that only 30 percent of the population flosses daily. Unfortunately, this is one of the most vital parts of your oral health routine, which is recommended by your dentist in Irving to help you avoid the development of common oral issues, such as cavities and gum disease. Although it may seem like an inconvenient task, your smile is well worth the time and effort. Read on to learn how flossing helps keep your mouth clean.
If You Brush Your Teeth, Why is Flossing Necessary?
Unfortunately, a toothbrush is only designed to clear the surface of your pearly whites, not reach in between them. Even though this can get rid of any accumulated plaque and food debris above and below the gum line, food debris and other harmful substance remain stuck between your teeth. This is a common reason why cavities form. As sugars and carbohydrates feed bacteria in these areas, they begin to release an enamel-eroding acid that eventually begin working their way deeper into the tooth. Flossing completely cleans these areas, drastically reducing your risk of developing cavities.
How Does Plaque & Tartar Accumulate Between Teeth?
Each time you eat your favorite snack, the chewed-up food debris mixes with your saliva to form a thin film called plaque. Within this sticky substance harmful bacteria are also housed. If these areas that are full of plaque aren’t cleaned, within 24 to 72 hours, it will harden and turn into tartar. Unfortunately, this substance is too tough to be cleared away with a regular toothbrush. At this point, the only person that will be able to remove it is your dentist in 75062 or your dental hygienist. As the plaque continues to harden into tartar, bacteria will accumulate and become trapped, eventually severely damaging and irritating the gums.
How Can You Make Flossing Easier?
Many people skip out on daily flossing because they have difficulty maneuvering a thin piece of floss between each of their teeth to clear out the trapped debris. This task is especially hard for people with fine motor issues, arthritis, and even just large hands. Fortunately, there are a variety of helpful gadgets out there to make flossing more enjoyable and easier, such as dental floss picks or water flossers. Both of these are easy-to-handle, effective, and highly efficient.
If you’re in doubt that you’re flossing correctly or are wondering what makes flossing your teeth so important, be sure to ask your dentist in Irving. Although this may seem like something you can put on the backburner, if you do, it can cause your mouth serious issues down the road.
About the Author
Dr. Rafiq Hirji helps patients of all ages optimize their oral health by providing them with the tools and techniques they need to effectively and efficiently maintain their smiles. He regularly takes continuing education courses and advances his training to stay up-to-date with the latest treatments, techniques, and technology in the dental world. This allows him to give his patients the highest quality of care. For questions or to schedule a routine checkup and cleaning, visit Daily Smiles MacArthur’s website or call 972-546-4114.