The Dental Floss Dilemma Is… You’re Not Doing It!
The American Dental Association recommends flossing your teeth at least once every single day. But surprisingly, roughly 32% of adults in this country admit that they don’t floss at all, according to a recent study!
Are you in that group? Our team at Bayou Dental Group isn’t here to floss shame you today. Instead, we’re here to encourage you to rededicate yourself to better dental habits for a healthier smile.
The day after Thanksgiving is National Flossing Day, so what better time to talk about the dental floss dilemma? Today, we’re looking at common reasons you might have for not flossing as much as you should and how you can turn it all around!
And remember, we’re always here to help you avoid dental problems with preventive dentistry here in Monroe, LA!
Are You Using Proper Flossing Technique?
If you’re unsure about how to floss properly, then our team at Bayou Dental Group is here to help you!
When you come in for a dental cleaning and exam, our hygienist can show you how to effectively get between your teeth and into those nooks and crannies so there are no tiny food particles left for harmful bacteria to eat.
Do Your Gums Bleed When You Floss?
This is actually one of the common symptoms of gum disease! Bleeding gums aren’t normal and should be examined by Dr. Finley. He and one of our experienced hygienists can help get your oral health back on track if you’re experiencing the early stages of gum disease.
Does Dental Floss Slip Out Of Your Grasp?
If you struggle to keep dental floss firmly wound around your fingers, you can try another flossing tool. Some flossers come in the form of a brush head and small handle that might make it easier to hold onto while cleaning between your teeth.
You could also try using a water pick. This tool relies on a strong water stream that cleans between teeth. They even make water picks that are specially designed to be stored in your shower for ease and convenience!
Is It Too Hard To Floss Between Your Teeth?
Maybe you’re having a tough time working your dental floss in between your teeth because you don’t have enough wiggle room. You might want to try waxed dental floss to see if that does the trick!
It could also be hard to get between your teeth because you wear braces or have some sort of other dental work. Try a threader to weave your dental floss around any fixtures. Ask Dr. Finley or one of our hygienists if you’d like to learn more about proper threading technique!
Does Your Floss Come Apart Easily?
One of the good things about dental floss is that it doesn’t necessarily matter which brand you use. You can choose thin, thick, waxed, or unwaxed. You even have the option of flavored or unflavored!
The point is, it’s hard to say whether or not it’s the brand of dental floss that falls apart or whether it’s your technique. You can try to ease up on the pressure you use while flossing, for example.
If that doesn’t help, it could mean that you have problems with your teeth you might not see. You could have a jagged edge because of a cavity or broken restoration.
Talk to one of our skilled hygienists at your next checkup about the problems you’re having with dental floss!
Do You Often Forget To Floss?
If you find it hard to remember to floss, it might help to store it where you know you’ll see it everyday. You could place it next to your toothbrush or toothpaste. Maybe you could keep it near your desk at work so you can floss after your lunch break.
Schedule Your Next Dental Checkup!
Celebrate National Flossing Day by scheduling your next dental cleaning and exam at Bayou Dental Group!
With a strong oral hygiene routine at home and regular professional dental care, you can achieve better oral health and a beautiful smile to last a lifetime.
Call our Monroe, LA dental office at 318-323-9303 or fill out our online form to request an appointment.