You probably hear from your dentist telling you to floss all the time. But there are so many questions that you might've not gotten the chance to ask. Questions like "why is it so important, why do my gums bleed when I floss, and am I even flossing the right way" will all be answered in this blogpost.
Why is Flossing so Important?
Removes plaque and food particles between your teeth that your toothrush can't reach
Prevent bad breath
Prevents gum disease by stimulating the gums(improving blood flow and overall gum health)
Reduces risk of cavities caused by food particles and plaque that can erode your tooth enamel & cause cavities
Why do my Gums Bleed when I Floss?
Bleeding while flossing could be a sign of gum inflammation or gingivitis(caused by plaque buildup). When buildup is not removed, it can irritate the gums, causing them to become inflamed and bleed. Regular flossing can help reverse gingivitis and prevent more serious gum disease!
How to Floss Correctly
Choose your desired floss
Use a gentle rubbing motion to guide it between your teeth
Gently slide floss up and down between your teeth
Curve the floss around the base of each tooth and make sure you go beneath the gumline(do not snap floss into your gums)
Use a clean section of floss moving from tooth to tooth(avoid spreading bacteria and plaque)
After flossing, rinse your mouth and spit out debris that was removed
Floss at least once a day, preferably before bedtime
Just by taking a few minutes each day to floss, you can help prevent gum disease, cavities, and other oral heatlh issues. So, make flossing a part of your daily routine, and your teeth and gums will thank you!