According to a survey, 73% of Americans claim they would instead go grocery shopping than floss their teeth. And closer home, how many people in Kenya do you know that floss their teeth? While flossing teeth might seem unnecessary in your dental hygiene routine, it’s an essential oral hygiene habit for optimal health. If you’re not flossing regularly, there may be particles of food stuck between your teeth and gum lines, causing cavities and gum disease over time.
What is Flossing?
Flossing cleans the spaces between your teeth and gums with a particular type of string. This string, called dental floss, is a thin filament that removes bacteria and plaque. Sometimes, your teeth may hurt after flossing because of gum disease or tooth decay. If this happens to you, contact your dentist as soon as possible.
Why Is Flossing Essential?
- Prevents Gingivitis
Flossing is as important as brushing. It removes bacteria and plaque that may build up between teeth and the gum line and cause gingivitis, an early form of gum disease.
If you leave gingivitis untreated, it can progress to periodontitis, causing tooth loss. And since the only way to prevent it is by practicing excellent dental hygiene, including thorough flossing, it’s worth taking the time to do so.
- Prevention of Cavities
Flossing will help eliminate plaque and debris below the gum line and between your teeth. This elimination prevents cavities, which can cause pain and negative social and emotional impacts in children. Since cavities are the most common chronic disease in kids between 6 to 19, flossing is essential for them. It will nip the poor dental hygiene habits in the bud and help them stay healthy and happy.
- Flossing Protects Your Children’s Gums
An infection of the gums can result in tooth loss, but flossing can help. Unlike brushing, it removes plaque, which can harden into tartar. If you don’t remove tartar, it can inflame your gums and cause gum disease; this is not different in kids. Their gums are also susceptible to plaque.
The bacteria in tartar produce toxins that irritate the soft tissues of your mouth. Your gums may recede and develop a large pocket called a periodontal pocket. Bacteria from this pocket can enter other parts of your body, such as your heart or brain, via infected blood vessels.
- Flossing Reduces Bad Breath
When you eat, food particles get caught between teeth. Flossing helps remove these particles, preventing bad breath that may cause embarrassment for you. It also builds confidence among kids as they don’t have to worry about embarrassment from foul breath.
- Flossing Builds Healthy Oral Habits in Kids
Teeth flossing in kids teaches them oral hygiene habits at an early age, ensuring they do it effortlessly throughout their life. The best way to ensure this is to lead by example. You can also reward them for flossing. Ensure you schedule frequent pediatric dentist appointments for routine checks and to help you choose the right floss for them.
Can Teeth Hurt After Flossing?
Yes, there may be pain or discomfort after flossing, especially if you’re a beginner. Suppose your gums bleed a little when you floss; it’s a good sign that you’re doing a thorough job. However, if you experience pain or sensitivity after flossing, it could be a sign that you’re doing it wrong. Too much force can hurt your gums, causing bleeding and sensitivity. Visiting a dental hygienist would help you remedy the situation. And we have one just for you among our professional specialists.
Conclusion
While it may seem like work, flossing your teeth is extremely important for oral health for you and your kids. It removes plaque and bacteria from in between your teeth, alleviating gum disease and tooth decay. Plus, it helps prevent bad breath. So next time you’re standing in front of the sink, take a few extra minutes to floss and ask your kids to join in.
Want to guarantee your kid’s dental health? Call or whatsapp 0768 368266 and book an appointment today