why use dental floss

Dentists can’t talk enough about the benefits of flossing your teeth. But quite often their plea goes unheeded by patients who ultimately miss out on the benefits. But just why are dentists so enthusiastic about a little piece of white string? Well, for starters floss does a terrific job of aiding the removal of plaque from between teeth, which helps in preventing gum disease and cavities.

Now don’t get us wrong, a toothbrush is still an essential tool for getting a good clean, but using both a toothbrush AND floss is like giving your mouth a real power clean. Floss can go where a toothbrush can’t, so flossing at least once a day is a vital part of maintaining oral health.

Whilst most people are well trained in spending quality time with their toothbrush, sadly floss continues to struggle. In an online survey conducted as part of the American Academy of Periodontology’s national campaign called “Love The Gums You’re With,” it was revealed that many people would rather do an unpleasant activity in preference to flossing.

The top three unpleasant activities that people would prefer to flossing are:

  • Washing a sink full of dirty dishes (18 percent preferred),
  • Cleaning the toilet (14 percent),
  • Waiting in a long check-out line (14 percent).

In the same survey, more than a quarter of respondents said they lied to their dentist about flossing.

Clearly, there is some work to be done to raise the esteem of floss! If you’re not a flosser, we urge you to take the challenge and introduce floss to your dental routine. Your teeth will love you for adopting a good floss habit for life (and your dentist will be pretty thrilled too).

 

The information contained on this website and websites linked to this website (Information) does not constitute or comprise comprehensive medical or dental advice. You should seek dental advice directly from your dentist before acting or relying on the Information.

First published: 06 November 2014

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