Why Floss? Your Guide to Healthy Gums

By: Austin Yan

Introduction

TBH moment: we have all experienced those moments when we feel lazy and decide to skip flossing for the night, especially after a long day out at the bar or work. But what many of us don't realize is the harm that skipping this step has on our oral hygiene.

It is no secret that good oral hygiene is key towards a healthy and aesthetic smile. While most of us understand the importance of regular brushing, flossing often takes a backseat. Flossing is significantly more critical than we give it credit for and helps keep up our oral health more than we realize.

1. Removing Plaque and Tartar

   Contrary to common belief, brushing alone cannot effectively eliminate all the food particles, bacteria, and plaque that accumulate between teeth and under the gumline. Flossing plays a vital role in accessing hard-to-reach areas and removing plaque that brushing alone cannot. Dental floss is like cleaning in between your fingernails before washing your hands: it disrupts plaque formation before it calcifies into tartar, which can lead to gum disease and other dental problems. By flossing every day, you can prevent plaque buildup and reduce the risk of tartar formation.

2. Maintaining Strong Teeth

   Fillings are the most common dental procedure, as cavities occur when bacteria produce acids that erode tooth enamel. Flossing helps prevent cavities by removing bacteria that cause tooth decay, particularly from areas that toothbrushes cannot reach. Not flossing allows harmful bacteria-laden plaque to build up, leading to cavities forming in those vulnerable spots. By making flossing a necessity, you significantly reduce the risk of developing cavities, keeping the aesthetics behind the smile intact.

3. Preventing Gum Disease

   Periodontal disease affects millions of people worldwide and is one of the most common oral health problems. The accumulation of plaque can lead to gingivitis, the inflammation of the gums. The good news behind this is that this condition is preventable and reversible through diligent brushing and flossing. Similar to how mud and dirt can harden on cars, if too much plaque is left untreated and builds up, it can harden into calculus, which cannot be removed by regular oral hygiene practices and requires professional cleaning. If calculus still remains untreated, however, it can lead to periodontitis, a severe condition causing gums to recede and may result in tooth and bone loss.

4. Reducing the Risk of Heart Disease

   Perhaps the biggest concern with periodontal disease is that it can lead to heart disease, as recent literature has established an association between the two. With gum disease, the bacteria responsible for gum disease can enter the bloodstream, contributing to the formation of arterial plaques and increasing the risk of heart problems. Flossing regularly and maintaining healthy gums indirectly contributes to better heart health.

Flossing Tips

• Floss at least once a day, ideally before brushing.

• Use the correct technique: ensure the floss touches the gum and gently massage it with a rotating, back-and-forth motion. Think of flossing as a gum massage!

• If traditional flossing is uncomfortable, consider trying water flossers, such as Waterpik, as an alternative.

• Be consistent with flossing. Make it a habit!

Conclusion

Incorporating flossing into your daily dental routine might seem like a small step, but it can have a profound impact on your oral and overall health. By taking just a few minutes each day to floss, you can prevent gum disease, cavities, bad breath, and potential health issues beyond the mouth.