To floss, or not to floss? That is the question.
I hate flossing! Yes, that’s right. I do it because it’s necessary. Not optional, not joyful, but necessary for healthy oral care. It must be included in our daily regimen along with brushing and rinsing. Flossing should be done at least once a day and at a time that works for you, will require an extra minute or two to do. Let’s review our technique. Make sure you have a long enough piece of floss, gently move it back and forth to get between tooth contacts, hug each tooth with the floss and go below the gumline, discard after use.
Parents, you can start flossing your children’s baby teeth as soon as the teeth touch. There are different types of floss, so use the one that you like, commitment is what matters. Even when brushing is done properly, the bristles can not reach areas where floss will. The long term effect of not riding these areas of plaque and food can aid in the development of interproximal caries, periodontal disease, and tooth loss.
So remember, be true to your teeth, or they will be false to you.
Author: Kimberly N. Powell, DDS, MS
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