Love your teeth with floss

Why daily flossing is important

Proper flossing is important. It benefits the health of your teeth and gums, as well as your overall health. Here’s why: There is a significant amount of bacteria between your teeth that causes an inflammatory response. This, in turn, enters your bloodstream and stresses your body’s overall immune response. Flossing is of extreme importance for patients that are dealing with other inflammatory diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, asthma, and diabetes, to mention a few.

Flossing removes food debris from between your teeth, therefore preventing cavities and gum tissue inflammation in areas where your toothbrush cannot efficiently clean.

There are many flossing aides available, although the very best is traditional floss. A water pik and toothpicks can also be effective. The goal of flossing remains the same no matter how one chooses to do it.

The best time to floss is insignificant but, ideally before bed. During sleeping hours, your saliva production decreases resulting in less protection for your teeth from low pH levels caused by bacteria breaking down food left between your teeth. This eventually leads to the decalcification of teeth which is the beginning of decay.

As we age our dexterity decreases and flossing tends to become less effective. It is important to pay attention to your aging family members and work with their dental professional to devise a plan that prevents decalcification and minimizes inflammation.

Flossing technique is important and is more than just passing floss through the contact, of your teeth. After the contact pass, it is important to form a “C” around the tooth so that debris is removed from underneath the gum tissue.

For more information regarding the benefits of flossing, flossing techniques, or flossing alternatives speak to your healthcare professional especially since everyone’s mouth is unique.

Dr. Eric L. Eby, D.D.S., M.A.G.D. His interests include crown and bridge, implant dentistry, and sleep apnea.