Floss, Floss, Floss – Need We Say More?

Brushing and flossing twice a day is the proven way to prevent cavities and periodontal disease. You may be brushing, but are you flossing? If not, read on to learn why flossing is critically important to your dental health – not just for today, but as you age.

After years of education about the benefits of flossing, many people do not floss.

• Whitening and bleaching are popular, along with straightening procedures and veneers.
• There are lots of mouthwash choices on the market.
• So, clearly, we seem to want whiter, straighter teeth and fresher breath, but it seems we continue to resist one of the best ways to ensure healthy teeth and gums.

Here’s some “floss history”:

It’s believed that dental floss was invented almost 200 years ago by an American dentist who asked his patients clean between their teeth with thin, silk thread. Silk dental floss was first manufactured in the late 1880’s but by the 1940’s, nylon thread had replaced silk and waxed floss was introduced.

If you are currently not flossing much, if at all, here are FOUR reasons why you should make flossing a daily habit:

1. Flossing reaches areas your toothbrush can’t, protecting your back teeth where most decay and gum disease occur.
2. Daily flossing removes sticky plaque, which also helps prevent gum disease.
3. Daily flossing encourages sweeter, fresher breath.
4. Flossing strengthens your gums which helps prevent gum disease and tooth loss.

And…when plaque is attacked by flossing, harmful bacteria is eliminated and cannot find its way to other parts of your body. Making flossing a daily habit not only keeps your teeth healthy but studies have shown that it is an essential part of your overall health.