The Importance of Flossing Everyday

 At Kidz Connextion Dental & Braces in Phoenix, AZ, Dr. John Graneto stresses flossing as one of the most important things in daily dental care. With three Phoenix locations: 2533 N 75 Ave, 2046 N 24th St, and 524 E Baseline Rd, one is sure to be convenient for an appointment or a consultation.

Dental Hygiene

Good dental hygiene is essential for overall health. Cleaning between your teeth helps to remove any leftover food and debris that could remain. When debris remains between your teeth, it forms plaque and the plaque can harden into tartar. Having tartar near or under your gums can lead to inflamed gums and the beginnings of periodontal disease. Left untreated, you can get gingivitis which can then get into the bloodstream and cause issues with your heart and other systems in the body.

The ADA recommends that you brush your teeth for two minutes twice a day and floss at least once a day. Many people prefer to floss before going to bed.

Why Floss

Flossing can get into some hard-to-reach places between your teeth. These are places where your toothbrush just can't reach. Some people find that interdental cleaners are easier to use at home than floss. Both of them accomplish the same thing. Not only does flossing help to fight gum disease, but it also helps to reduce the likelihood that you will get cavities in these hard-to-reach places.

Types of Floss

Floss today is usually made from plastic or nylon fibers. You can buy it in single packages, or it can be attached to a plastic pick. It comes in either waxed or unwaxed versions, and they are both equally effective. Some people find that the waxed version slides between tight teeth easier, but other people have sensitivity issues with the wax. It can also be flavored which, while it makes it more pleasant to use for flossing in Phoenix, AZ, does not affect how well it works. All types work equally well if they are used properly.

If you have any questions about how to floss correctly, ask your dentist to give you some instructions. Flossing incorrectly won't be as effective as correct flossing. Flossing every day is one of the best things you can do for your teeth and your gums.

You can't start your kids too early to have healthy dental flossing habits in Phoenix, AZ. Dr. Graneto of Kidz Connextion Dental & Braces will help you and your kids get off to the right start. Call one of their three offices, 2533 N 75 Ave (602) 833-5286, 2046 N 24th St (480) 405-3635, and 524 E Baseline Rd (480) 405-3387.