Flossing is not a common habit among a large number of Nigerians and it is almost considered an unnecessary chore. When you visit the dentist, you are told to floss, but this instruction is often ignored by most dental patients. It’s about time we stopped ignoring and be aware that flossing is very much for our good.
Flossing does about 40% of the work required to remove sticky bacteria or plaque from your teeth. Plaque generates acid which can cause cavities, irritate the gum, and eventually lead to gum disease. Each tooth has five surfaces. If you don’t floss, you are leaving at least two of the surfaces unclean.
Plaque which is not removed by brushing and cleaning between your teeth can eventually harden into a rough substance called tartar (or calculus). Tartar collects along your gum line and can lead to gum disease. Once tartar forms, only your dentist can remove it.
So, what should you do?
Choose the right dental floss
Most flosses are made of either nylon or teflon and both types are equally effective. People with larger spaces between their teeth or with gum recession (loss of gum tissue, which exposes the roots of the teeth) tend to get better results with a flat, wide dental tape. If your teeth are close together, try thin floss that bills itself as shred resistance.
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Floss often
We already established that daily flossing is a good inclusion in your oral health care regimen.
Plus, according to the American Dental Association, flossing once a day is optimal. It takes bacteria colonies in the mouth about 24 hours to fully form, so as long as you dislodge any food particle stuck between your teeth in a day, you will keep tooth decay in check. The truth? Flossing is the only thing that can really get into the spaces between the teeth and remove bacteria.
So, Flexxers, to retain that amazing smile and fresh breath, you should add one thing to your list of dental care activities… Floss!
Do you Floss? What was it like the first time you tried it and what were the results? Other Flexxers would love to know in the comment section!
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