The average number of cavities in Korean children is about twice the global average of 1.61. Additionally, approximately 70% of adults suffer from gum disease. Although many people diligently brush their teeth, not as many use dental floss, which is crucial for maintaining gum health. This article will discuss the correct usage of dental floss and debunk common misconceptions.
Healthy Gums Don’t Bleed
If your gums are healthy, they won’t bleed when you floss. Bleeding gums generally indicate the presence of inflammation, which may be caused by the buildup of plaque and tartar on your teeth. Plaque, a white substance visible on the nails when the teeth surface is scraped, is formed from food debris and bacteria. When it hardens, it becomes a tartar. If not regularly removed by flossing, plaque will accumulate, leading to gum disease.
Clean More When You Bleed!
If your gums bleed, you should use floss to clean the area more thoroughly. If you avoid flossing because of bleeding, the inflammation can worsen and develop into periodontitis, which damages gum tissue. Regular flossing usually stops the bleeding within 1-2 weeks. If bleeding persists for an extended period, it is advisable to seek dental treatment.
Flossing Can Reveal Spaces Between Teeth
Flossing can reveal spaces between your teeth, but these gaps aren’t caused by flossing. They appear when swelling in your gums is resolved due to decreased inflammation, making it seem like the spaces between your teeth have widened. Since the natural shape of your teeth is an inverted triangle, space can be created at the bottom of the teeth.
If Spaces Widen, Suspect Gum Disease
If the spaces between your teeth widen, you should suspect gum disease. This condition occurs when the tissues and bones around your teeth are destroyed due to bacterial infection. Early stages of gum disease can be reversed through scaling and tartar removal, but surgery may be required if it progresses to periodontitis. Early detection and treatment are crucial, as missing the window for treatment can lead to tooth extraction.
Reduces Periodontitis by 78%
The buildup of food and tartar between your teeth can lead to gum diseases. Studies have shown that using dental floss thrice daily after meals can reduce periodontitis by 78%. Proper dental floss removes debris between your teeth and eliminates plaque that binds with tartar, preventing its formation. On the other hand, using toothpicks to remove food debris between your teeth can widen the spaces, negatively affecting gum health.
Correct Way to Use Dental Floss
Cut about 12 inches of dental floss and wind it around your middle fingers to prevent it from slipping. Insert the floss between your teeth and gently move it back and forth to remove plaque and food debris. Be careful not to hurt your gums, and clean even the molars at the far back. Use a fresh section of floss for each space between your teeth.
Tooth Brushing Alone is Not Enough for Plaque Removal
Regularly using dental floss is essential because daily tooth brushing alone is insufficient for cleaning your mouth. The most significant benefit of flossing is plaque removal. Brushing can’t effectively clean the areas of your teeth that touch your gums or the spaces between them, making them prone to cavities. If you’re uncomfortable using dental floss, consider using a water flosser to remove food particles stuck in tight spaces or deep parts of your teeth.
Use Dental Floss Suitable for the Width Between Your Teeth
It would be best if you used dental floss that fits your teeth. Use a thicker, waxed floss if the spaces between your teeth are wide. If the spaces are narrow, use a thinner floss. A thick floss for narrow spaces can widen the gaps, creating more room for food particles and increasing the risk of gum inflammation.
Use Dental Floss Before Brushing
Many people avoid flossing because it’s time-consuming, but you don’t have to floss three times a day. Even once a day, preferably before going to bed, is beneficial. If the spaces between your teeth are too tight for floss, you don’t need to force it.
A Must for Those with Implants!
While flossing benefits everyone, it’s necessary for those with dental implants or uneven teeth alignment. Food particles can easily get stuck in uneven spaces or under prosthetics, leading to cavities and gum diseases.
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