Is Flossing Important?

Flossing is something we all know we should do, but actually doing it is another thing. Is flossing necessary? Many dental patients may think it’s sufficient to brush their teeth daily and use mouthwash. Others only floss when they have something stuck between their teeth. Our Yuba City dentist has answers to the most common questions about flossing.

How Often Should You Floss?

Floss every day. It’s that simple. The Yuba City Dentistry Group knows it may be a chore, but remember the old dentistry saying: “You only need to floss the teeth you want to keep!” So when you’re tempted to skip flossing because you’re too tired, think about these benefits of flossing:

• Flossing prevents tooth loss, gum recession and decay.
• Flossing contributes to fresher breath.
• Flossing may reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke.

Daily flossing removes plaque and bacteria from between the teeth that cause cavities and bad breath. Uncontrolled oral bacteria have been shown to increase the risk for heart disease and stroke. This is a major reason why the Yuba City Dentistry Group encourages all dental patients to floss daily!

If Flossing Makes Your Gums Bleed

What if it hurts to floss or your gums bleed when you floss? If you floss daily, your gums won’t bleed and it will not hurt. It also helps to have the right technique. When you floss, hold it at an angle so you are able to move gently up and down each tooth along the sides. Do not use a sawing motion against your gums. Don’t try to dig deep beneath the gums. Bleeding gums are a consequence of gum disease, not flossing. Flossing prevents bleeding gums. If your gums are bleeding, you need to see our Yuba City dentist due check for severe gum disease or periodontitis.

Despite the proven health benefits of a daily flossing routine, it is believed that only one third of Americans do so regularly. It’s not too late to start, so if you are not a daily flosser, start today. In addition to daily brushing and flossing, keep your appointments with the Yuba City Dentistry Group. Your daily routine, along with our expert dental care, make a team that can’t be beat!