Most people know that they should floss, and that flossing is a good thing for them to do.
Gary Glassman, dentist and world-renowned Oral Fitness expert.
“Not flossing your teeth is like only washing the outside of a mug and not the inside.”
He told me that flossing can leave leftover food and drink around your teeth.
Dr. Jeffrey Rappaport, general dentist and co-founder ofAforain New York City, agrees.
Are you flossing enough?
How many times a day should you be flossing?
The number may differ from dentist to dentist.
If you’re a dental hygiene fanatic, you might be inclined to floss more than the suggested amount.
However, too much flossing might not be the best idea, either.
Flossing too vigorously or applying too much pressure on the gums can cause the gums to bleed."
On the other end of the spectrum, there are those who are not flossing enough.
“Not flossing enough can causegingivitis.”
Diabetes
Extremely poor dental health can be detrimental to your overall health.
So remember to floss to aid in keeping control of your diabetes!
“If you suffer from periodontitis, it puts you at a much higher risk for kidney disease.”
Heart disease
Heart disease is a very serious and potentially life-threatening issue.
Flossing and brushing your teeth regularly is the best way to keep gums healthy."
Ulcers
Ulcers can cause great pain and discomfort.
Again, periodontitis is the culprit!
Surprise, surprise the disease that results from poor dental hygiene can cause stomach ulcers.
Just one more reason to get flossing.
Flossing correctly is key
Conviced you oughta floss daily yet?
Dr. Glassman offered these very simple instructions: Gently slide the floss between your teeth.
Repeat the process between each tooth.
Don’t forget the backs of your rear molars.
What kind of floss should you use?
“Obviously regular floss is great,” says Dr. Rappaport.
“It gets the job done, if you’re using it correctly.”
Go on, get healthy!
Don’t write anything like ‘floss’ on it, because that sounds too disciplinary."
He told me that it’s a great way to get back into the habit of flossing.
Flossing not only gives you a better smile, but a healthier body as well.
