How Often Do You Floss?

A National survey found, more than a quarter of adults admit to lying to their dentist about how often they floss. (Perio.org). While flossing is one of the most important tasks you can do to ensure a healthy, white smile, many adults admit they don’t want to get caught by their dentist not taking care of their smile.  Flossing is recommended by periodontist Dr. Denine Rice, because, “It is the single most important activity for removing food between the teeth and ensuring periodontal disease doesn’t impact your gums.”

 

Brushing allows you to remove food from the tops of your teeth, but no matter how great your toothbrush is, the bristles do not reach down far enough and remove food from between the teeth.  Brushing is great for your teeth, flossing ensures your gums stay healthy.

Periodontist Dr. Denine Rice recommends, “Floss at least one time a day.” If you eat foods that are sticky, or high in carbohydrates, you might want to floss immediately after eating as these foods have a tendency to stay on your teeth longer, allowing unwanted bacteria to begin the process of decay. While saliva will rinse some foods from between your teeth, carbohydrates tend to stay stuck to your teeth until you brush and floss.