You have probably heard or been told countless times how important it is to take care of your teeth. And that includes not only regular visits to your dentist but daily brushing and flossing.
However, even with all that knowledge, you may choose to ignore the advice on flossing and decide that brushing alone should do the trick and keep your teeth nice and healthy.
Is the decision not to floss a wise one or are you making a big mistake? Read on to find out.
Why floss?
If you have ever done it, you have seen for yourself the way flossing dislodges particles of food that have gotten stuck between your teeth and that brushing clearly has been unable to remove. What you may not know is that in addition to removing those tiny pieces of food, flossing, when done correctly, also takes care of eliminating plaque.
By not flossing, you allow the accumulation of food, plaque, and its accompanying bacteria. The result is tooth decay and gum disease developing over time.
Flossing or brushing, what should get done first?
It’s been established that both brushing and flossing are important. However, there is some controversy as to which should be done first. Apparently, if you brush first, any food, plaque, or bacteria that is released when you finish flossing, will remain in your mouth until the moment when you brush again.
On the other hand, if you switch and floss first, the brushing movement will get rid of all these particles from your mouth. The result is that, in the long run, you will have a lower risk of developing gum disease. An extra benefit is the fact that the fluoride that is in the toothpaste will remain in your mouth for a bit longer, giving you an extra protection for your teeth.
Think about this fluoride benefiting your teeth and make sure it remains there as long as possible by not rinsing your mouth with water immediately after brushing.
If you find it impossible not to rinse, use a single tablespoon of water. You’ll be surprised by how this small amount of water does the trick and leaves your mouth feeling fresh. And if you are in the habit of using a fluoride mouthwash, refrain from eating or drinking anything for at least 30 minutes after you have rinsed your mouth.
Is there anything else you can do to protect your teeth?
Besides flossing and brushing, here are some other tips that will maintain or improve the health of your teeth:
- Forget toothpicks and go for the dental floss. Toothpicks can injure your gums and lead to infections
- Make sure the toothpaste you use has fluoride to help strengthen the enamel of your teeth.
- When brushing, don’t skip the tongue. You will have greater dental hygiene and better breath.
- Brush gently. Being too aggressive will only result in getting your gums to bleed.
Are you looking for the best dental team for your teeth?
Park Crossing Dentistry in Charlotte, North Carolina, offers you a team of experts that is ready to take care of all of your dental needs.
You and your loved ones can rest assured that you will be able to access the full range of dental services that you and your children require. Make an appointment today.
