Flossing: Friend or Foe?

There are many individuals who may view flossing as another part of their routine. They may not realize all of the benefits that come with flossing, or they may have even heard that flossing can have negative effects. We are here to set the record straight on this daily task, which can actually save your mouth from unpleasant diseases and unnecessary visits to your dentist!

The American Dental Association, or ADA, has recently put out a few great publications related to flossing. They have reported, based on a study performed in 2015, that the majority of both adults and children are not compliant in their flossing. Dentists often find this out during their bi-annual checkups, or even when they are in the dental chair for other complications.

Dentists have reported that flossing is equally as important as brushing. Flossing after meals removes food particles from the small spaces between the teeth. If this is not done regularly, those food particles can begin to grow bacteria or plaque and later develop into some very unpleasant dental pathology.

While some patients have reported that they feel pain or even bleeding when flossing, this has been linked back to diseases of the gums. Even patients who suffer from very mild forms of gingivitis can complain of bleeding or discomfort when flossing in certain areas of the mouth.

The best way to prevent this is not to stop flossing, but to consult your dental professional. They can help you develop a flossing plan and recommend the best products with consideration of sensitivity to your teeth and gums.

Take care of your teeth! Contact the leading dentist in New York City for all ages today!