To protect the health of your teeth and gums, your oral hygiene routine is important. Your dentist recommends that you brush your teeth at least twice a day while flossing every night before going to bed. While many follow the brushing advice, only four out of ten people floss every day. In addition, another 20% never floss their teeth according to the American Dental Association. However, lack of proper flossing is not the only concern as a new survey has found some pretty unusual flossing habits that can hurt your oral health.
Don’t Underestimate the Importance of Flossing
Even with the best brushing techniques, there are areas in the mouth that a toothbrush cannot reach, like around the gum line and in between the teeth. The only way to clean these areas is with dental floss.
If you are not flossing daily, you are allowing plaque and bacteria to accumulate, leading to gum disease. With the infection causing serious complications for your oral and overall health, it is important to take the time to properly floss every night.
Skip Unusual Flossing Habits
Flossing is often viewed as a hated chore. In fact, 14% of people admit that they would rather clean a toilet than do it. With it often seen as a time consuming or pointless aspect to oral hygiene, many cut corners when it comes to flossing. Not only are many people skipping it all together, but some are resorting to some unusual methods to clean between the teeth.
The American Dental Association recently conducted a survey of over 1,000 adults to evaluate flossing habits and methods. The results of the survey found that people are turning to some unconventional methods to clean between the teeth, like the use of paper, safety pins, hair, and finger nails. In some cases, people even use twigs, matchbooks, electrical wires, and pocket knives.
63% of those who admitted to using other objects besides dental floss know better than to use them; however, they still continued to despite the risk for infection and safety concerns. While they may have good intentions, using anything but a water flosser or dental floss can lead to serious oral health complications and injury.
Promote a Healthy Smile with Regular Flossing
Properly flossing is not too difficult and is safe with the right products. When choosing a dental floss, look for one that has the ADA Seal of Acceptance, which means it is safe and effective for use. Gently insert it between two teeth and form a “C” shape around the tooth. Slide it to the gum line and back up to the crown of the tooth. Then, repeat this process for each tooth.
Dentist Near Me for a Healthy Smile
Although you may not enjoy it, flossing correctly is vital to protecting a healthy smile. Don’t skip it or turn to unusual methods. If you have any questions, contact your dentist.
About D & G Dental
D & G Dental is committed to providing complete dental care to patients of all ages. With a team approach, we will help you reach your oral health goals. If you have any questions about proper oral hygiene habits, contact our office today.