Flossing: What Is Your Excuse?

If you are one of the 49% of Americans who say they do not floss on a daily basis, it may be time to reconsider your oral hygiene habits. Flossing is intended to accomplish far more than just removing food between your pearly whites. By choosing to floss each day, you are giving your smile and your body some profound benefits to better health.

Flossing is responsible for cleaning up to 35% of your tooth’s structure that your toothbrush cannot reach. This hygiene task not only removes particles of stuck food, but it eliminates plaque buildup between your teeth. Flossing can even prevent harmful bacteria from reaching your cardiac tissues and compromising your overall health. Experts agree that daily flossing helps prevent the following:

• Cavities
• Plaque and Tartar Buildup
• Gum Disease
• Bad Breath
• Heart Disease

Whether you floss in the morning or at night is really up to you. Many experts, however, suggest that it is more efficient to floss before brushing rather than afterwards. This allows you to dislodge stuck food particles and plaque before your toothbrush comes into action.

So if you are not flossing – what is your excuse?  Is it time, bleeding or a lack of know-how?  At Gilreath Family Dentistry, we would love to hear your excuses and help you find the best flossing solutions for you. There is an expansive inventory of flossing options on the market, including those that solve dexterity problems, taste preferences and more. Patients can also elect an electric or water-flossing tool to avoid the stringy hassle altogether. The best flossing method for you, however, is the one that you will actually use.  Stop your excuses and start flossing today – your smile and your body will thank you.