This is a surprisingly common question we hear at our Eagan dental office, and the answer is – yes! Flossing is an integral part of a consistent home care routine that helps to protect your smile from problems like tooth decay and gum disease.
Yet it’s also part of the routine that most people overlook. You may throw flossing out the window when it’s late at night, and you’re tired, or you feel you just don’t have time for it. But the process takes only a couple of minutes that are worth it to protect one of your greatest assets – your beautiful smile.
HOW DOES FLOSSING YOUR TEETH PROTECT YOUR SMILE?
Flossing reaches in between your teeth, where plaque builds up and can lead to cavities. In between your teeth is a place that your toothbrush often misses, so flossing is the only way to protect against developing cavities in between your teeth.
The act of flossing also helps strengthen your gum tissue, which helps guard against infections and gum disease. In addition, removing bacteria from between your teeth ensures that it doesn’t have the chance to descend below your gumline and cause an infection known as periodontal (gum) disease. Gum disease is the leading cause of tooth loss in American adults. Still, the good news is that it’s highly preventable with an excellent home care routine of daily brushing and flossing combined with routine visits to your Eagan dentist every six months.
A REVIEW OF PROPER FLOSSING TECHNIQUES
Flossing your teeth doesn’t have to require a ton of time. You can use handy flossing tools that make it easy to get the floss gently in between each tooth. Or you can use a roll of floss. If you use a roll of floss, start with approximately 18 inches and roll it around one finger of each hand, giving you a tight piece to work with.
Gently move the floss up and down each tooth in a c-shaped motion, using a clean piece in between each tooth. Make sure you get in between all your teeth, and you’re done!
IS IT TIME FOR YOUR NEXT DENTAL CHECKUP?
If it’s time for your next teeth cleaning and checkup, contact Eagan Dental Care today at (651) 452-5511 to schedule your appointment. And don’t forget to ask about our exclusive Membership Plan and how it can save you money. Our team proudly serves patients in Eagan, Inver Grove Heights, Mendota Heights, Apple Valley, Rosemount, Bloomington, and Richfield, MN.
Related Services: Teeth Cleanings & Exams
