Brushing vs. Flossing

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Brushing vs. Flossing

To floss or not to floss appears to be an easy question, or is it? Who better to ask than your very own hygienist? While many peoples first instinct is to choose the toothbrush, dental hygienists may say you may be making the wrong decision.

  A recent report from the Associated Press, concluded that there isn’t a compelling reason to floss, stating that the recommendation lacks any evidence that flossing helps. Despite the recent articles, dental hygienists will tell you, without hesitation, to choose dental floss. While acknowledging that in addition to seeing your dentist at least twice per year, both are equally important in maintaining optimal oral health, dental floss is the only way to rid our mouths of the dangerous culprit responsible for setting into motion the decline of our overall dental health – biofilm. Biofilm is the plaque that forms on your teeth and causes tooth decay and periodontal disease.

Biofilm is a slimy glue-like substance that thrives in moist environments. The bacteria can attach to virtually any surface, including your teeth and oral tissues and dental floss is the only way to remove biofilm from between teeth where most cavities begin to form.

Dental flossing should always be done in tandem with regular brushing and regular six month visits to the dentist and it is important that both are given equal priority in maintaining your overall oral health.

Unmonitored biofilm can lead to gingivitis, which then leads to inflamed gums. Inflamed gums can then lead to periodontal disease, which causes bone loss. Bone loss and resorption causes teeth to become loose and ultimately lost. Also, oral bacteria contribute to the narrowing of artery walls, which can cause heart disease. None of this is worth the risk.

It is important for everyone to maintain healthy teeth and gums for life. Through oral health education, regular dental check-ups, brushing, along with proper flossing techniques, it should be everyone’s goal to achieve optimal overall health. You should always consider flossing, brushing, and rinsing after each meal whenever possible and getting your regular checkup and professional dental cleanings at least twice per year.