Blog

Milton Dentist: Debunking 7 Common Flossing Myths

Posted by Dr. Julie Boudreault On 21-02-2023

Often, the question that you dread every time you visit the dentist is, “Do you floss regularly?” The truth is that flossing is one of the most essential aspects of maintaining healthy dental hygiene.

When you aren’t flossing regularly, plaque can accumulate between your teeth and along your gum line. This can lead to an increase in the risk of tooth decay and gum disease over time.

Dental cleaning services are also something that everyone should build into their schedules to maintain their oral health. More than any other procedure, teeth cleaning is an essential part of dental hygiene that most people can’t effectively do by themselves.

Debunking the Big 7 Flossing Myths

Flossing is as critical as your Milton dentist says it is. It removes food and plaque, prevents calculus and tartar, and prevents cavities and gum disease.

Despite the fact that you might not notice a big difference if you don’t floss, your dentist and dental hygienist will. Plaque and tartar will take much longer to remove if you don’t floss. Cavities are more likely to develop as a result.

It’s sometimes difficult to remember to floss, even if you know you should. Additionally, many people have misconceptions about flossing, which prevent them from practicing proper dental hygiene. To find out the truth about common flossing myths, keep reading this blog.

Myth 1: Only floss when you need to remove food particles

Food particles should be removed between your teeth by flossing. Otherwise, infections can result from these particles irritating your teeth and gums.

Another reason to floss daily is to remove plaque between your teeth and at your gum line. Plaque is a combination of leftover food particles and saliva that contains bacteria, which can lead to gum disease and tooth decay. If you wait too long to floss, plaque will form in places your toothbrush cannot reach.

It is a good idea to floss even if you haven’t eaten in a few hours and can’t see any visible food particles.

Myth 2: Flossing is necessary after every brushing

Flossing every time you brush is a good idea, but it is not necessary. Flossing should be done one to two times a day, whenever it is convenient for you. Some people floss every morning and night, while others floss after lunch or other times during the day. The goal is to floss daily and on a consistent basis.

Myth 3: Flossing is not appropriate for children

Just like adults, children develop cavities, so flossing is still a very effective way to prevent them. Flossing can be difficult for children younger than ten years old, so you should assist them. It is the best time to develop good habits, as not only will you keep their teeth healthy, but you will also teach them great oral hygiene habits.

Myth 4: Flossing hurts

As with most things in life, if it’s painful, then something’s wrong. The first time you floss may be uncomfortable. After it becomes a regular habit, however, it shouldn’t hurt. People often stop flossing because it is painful, but this is the opposite of what they should do. Keep flossing gently if this happens to you.

If flossing doesn’t get easier in a week or two, then see your dentist in Milton. You might be using the wrong technique, or you might have an issue in your mouth that causes pain when flossing.

Myth 5: Stop flossing if your gums bleed

Your gums may bleed when flossing, which is usually an indication that you need to floss more often. The gums might bleed simply because they are not used to flossing or because of gingivitis or gum disease. If your gums continuously bleed when you floss, then visit your dentist.

Myth 6: There is no right way to floss

Flossing can be done correctly or incorrectly. Flossing incorrectly may not remove all food particles and plaque. Floss according to the most effective method as follows:

• Wind 46 centimetres (18 inches) of floss around each middle finger (leaving a few centimetres for flossing).
• Hold the floss between your thumbs and index fingers.
• Slide the floss up, down, and in between the teeth.
• Floss beneath the gum line, gently curling the floss around the top of each tooth.
• Move to a new section of teeth and repeat.

Tips:

• Flossing too much could damage sensitive gums.
• Don’t ignore the plaque under the gum line.
• Always use a clean section of floss.

Myth 7: Flossing is difficult

It will take some practice to acquire a good flossing technique. It may be more difficult for some people than for others, but overall, flossing shouldn’t be too challenging. Try using floss picks or interdental cleaners with Y-shaped ends if you have trouble reaching the back of your mouth. While floss picks make it easier to reach the back of your mouth, they also make it difficult to clean under the gum line. Crowns and bridges can be cleaned with interdental cleaners.

Flossing should, after some practice, be a painless, easy-going process that you will, hopefully, be glad to add to your regular oral hygiene routine.

With the flossing myths busted, it’s now time to floss. So, whenever your dentist asks, “Do you floss regularly?” you can respond with a confident “Yes!”

Taking care of your oral health and comfort is our top priority here at Milltown Dental. Healthy, bright smiles and optimum oral health require regular dental cleanings. If you’re looking for a dentist in Milton, get in touch with Milltown Dental today to schedule your next cleaning. You can call us at 833-318-3281 or contact us online.

2 Comments

Share Us On