Many people believe that brushing twice a day is enough to maintain one’s oral health, but there’s more to your dental hygiene than meets the eye. Brushing can only remove surface-level food particles stuck in the teeth, so flossing is always recommended to handle the plaque in areas where a toothbrush can’t reach. 

Unfortunately, common misconceptions make it seem like flossing is an unnecessary extra step in your routine. On the contrary, flossing plays a pivotal role in enhancing your overall smile. That’s why the list below should set the record straight about flossing your teeth and what it can do for your oral health:

Myth #1: Flossing is for Dislogding Stuck Food Particles in your Teeth

As mentioned above, the biggest myth about dental floss is that it’s only useful after eating a meal. However, flossing can do more good for your teeth as it can also remove the built-up plaque bacteria between your pearls. This can effectively mitigate gum diseases like gingivitis from developing. 

Myth #2: Flossing can Aggrave your Gums and Cause it to Bleed 

People with sensitive gums can bleed after flossing, and while it looks alarming, it’s only due to the aggressive action. Bleeding shouldn’t deter you from flossing since it is an integral part of healthy dental hygiene, so be sure to floss gently to avoid irritating the gums.

If the bleeding persists after correcting your approach, then it’s a tell-tale sign that indicates you have gum disease. In this case, you need to book an appointment with your local dentist and have it checked. 

Myth #3: Flossing is Bad for People with Receding Gums 

It’s easy to think that flossing can make matters worse for people with receding gums, but on the contrary, it’s even more crucial since it prevents bacteria from breeding in between the gaps of your gumline. 

Skimping out on dental floss will aggravate the condition and result in tooth decay, so be sure to floss gently and regularly to keep the problem from worsening. 

Myth #4: Flossing is not Meant for People with Tightly-Spaced Teeth 

All types of dental floss are designed to fit any teeth, but if your pearls literally don’t have any wiggle room, then it’s another problem you need to address with your dentist. 

The Bottom Line: Uncovering the Truth About Dental Floss

Everybody knows that brushing twice a day is a must, but flossing is equally an important part of good dental hygiene. There are misconceptions that prevent people from applying this practice, but we’re here to bust these myths so you can make the right decisions for your oral health. 

Why Choose Us?

Are you looking for ways to enhance your dental hygiene and oral health? The tips above should help iron out poor habits, but we can improve your smile further with our multi-faceted dental services. 

Our established dentists in South Edmonton can cater to your unique needs – be it teeth cleaning services, cosmetic dentistry, and more. Get in touch with us and see what we can do to bring back the confidence behind your smile! 

Posted in Dental News & Advice