Beach dental center dentures iconAt Beach Dental Center, our dentists routinely recommend flossing as a valuable part of oral health care. When performed properly, using dental floss to remove debris between teeth and at the gum line is safe and beneficial. A daily regime of flossing helps prevent tooth decay, gum disease and bad breath. 

Here are some interesting facts about dental floss you might not know:

  • There is evidence that our forefathers used materials such as horse hair as a precursor to floss to remove food from between their teeth.
  • Dental floss was first developed in 1815 in Louisiana by American dentist Levi Spear Parmly who designed the product from silken thread.
  • Nylon replaced silk as the most common floss material following the increased price of silk during the second World War.
  • Many believe flossing BEFORE brushing allows fluoride to better penetrate the mouth and is more helpful in fighting tooth decay.
  • Despite its simple design, sometimes people injure their gums when flossing due to too much pressure, and some are guilty of transferring food and bacteria from tooth to tooth by neglecting to make sure they floss each tooth with an unused segment of the strand.
  • Proper and regular flossing can help prevent many conditions including deadly heart disease.
  • In a few cases, prisoners have been known to use dental floss to “saw” their way through bars and even collect copious amounts of it to convert into “rope” to use to scale prison walls.
  • Aside from the popular flavors of mint and bubblegum, there is also bacon flavored floss!

Though many regard flossing as secondary to brushing, flossing is an essential part of a good oral healthcare routine. Remember, flossing gets to the places your toothbrush can’t!

Flossing and Plaque Removal

One of the most important benefits of flossing is its ability to effectively remove plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that forms on your teeth. Plaque can accumulate along the gumline and between teeth, leading to cavities and gum disease. Brushing alone cannot remove all the plaque, especially in tight spaces between teeth, which is why flossing is essential. When you floss, you disrupt the plaque and remove it before it hardens into tartar, which requires professional dental cleaning to remove. By flossing daily, you can help keep your teeth cleaner and your smile healthier.

Flossing and Preventing Tooth Decay

Tooth decay occurs when plaque produces acids that attack the enamel of your teeth, leading to cavities. Flossing is a critical part of preventing decay because it removes food particles and bacteria that can cause these harmful acids. Areas between your teeth are especially vulnerable to decay because they are harder to clean with a toothbrush. Regular flossing ensures that these spaces are kept clean and free from the debris that can lead to decay. Flossing can significantly reduce your risk of cavities, contributing to better long-term oral health.

Flossing and the Prevention of Gum Disease

Flossing is one of the most effective ways to prevent gum disease, a common oral health issue that starts with gingivitis and can progress to more serious conditions like periodontitis. Plaque that builds up along the gum line can cause irritation and inflammation, leading to gingivitis, which, if left untreated, can eventually result in gum recession, tooth mobility, and even tooth loss. Regular flossing helps remove the plaque from hard-to-reach areas and keeps your gums healthy by reducing the bacteria that cause gum disease. Flossing is a simple yet powerful tool in maintaining your gum health.

The Importance of Consistency

Flossing is not something you can do sporadically and expect to see results—it needs to be a consistent part of your oral hygiene routine. Flossing once in a while won’t remove the buildup of plaque that accumulates daily. The American Dental Association recommends flossing at least once a day to effectively remove plaque and prevent gum disease and cavities. By making flossing a habit, you ensure that your teeth and gums remain in optimal health. Consistency is key when it comes to seeing the full benefits of flossing.

Flossing and Dental Visits

While flossing is a great daily practice, it doesn’t replace the need for professional dental cleanings. Your dentist and hygienist can reach areas that may be missed by flossing, and they can provide a deeper clean that is necessary for optimal oral health. Flossing in conjunction with regular dental checkups ensures that your teeth and gums stay in the best possible condition. During your dental visit, your dentist will also check for signs of gum disease or cavities and offer advice on how to improve your flossing technique for even better results.

Flossing and Overall Wellness

Flossing is about more than just keeping your smile bright—it’s an investment in your overall health. Research has shown that maintaining good oral hygiene by flossing can reduce the risk of serious health conditions like heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. The bacteria that accumulate in the mouth can travel through the bloodstream, potentially affecting your heart and other organs. By flossing regularly, you not only protect your teeth and gums but also improve your overall well-being. Good oral health is an integral part of maintaining a healthy body.

Contact Beach Dental Center at 757-496-0993 for an appointment and your dental professional will teach you the proper way to floss your teeth.  We hope to see you soon!