Your dentist can tell if you aren’t flossing often enough. Look no further than inflamed, bleeding gums, which are the result of not flossing and the first stage of gum disease. People who aren’t flossing frequently probably just don’t realize how important it is.
The New Year is a great time to make a positive flossing change, but you will need to stick with it to see the benefits. Continue reading to learn from your dentist in Collinsville why flossing is so important plus get some tips to maintain your New Year’s resolution.
Why Is Flossing Such a Big Deal?
Even though brushing twice a day goes a long way in keeping your smile in good health, it isn’t enough. There are certain areas of your mouth that your toothbrush cannot quite reach. That’s why dentists all over the world recommend that you floss at least once a day. This helps you to get rid of food particles, plaque, and bacteria from between the teeth and beneath the gumline. When this isn’t removed, you are much more likely to develop tooth decay and periodontal disease.
Tips for Flossing Motivation in 2022 from Your Dentist in Collinsville
As committed as you are, the following tips may help you make your New Year’s resolution a reality:
- Set a realistic goal: You probably won’t go from no flossing to flossing daily. Try beginning with flossing twice a week and gradually increasing until you’re doing it daily. Commit to specific days ahead of time.
- Ask yourself why you don’t floss: If you are always exhausted when you get home at night, flossing may not be the number one thing on your mind. Set a reminder on your phone to go off right before bedtime or put a sticky note on your bathroom mirror. Don’t like flossing? Purchase a floss holder or disposable flossers to make the job easier.
- Reward yourself: For every week or month that you floss without missing a day, allow yourself to have a little treat as a reward for your diligence.
- Don’t be surprised by bleeding: A lack of flossing usually means the gums are inflamed, so they may bleed the first few times you floss. This is normal and should stop after a few days. If not, you likely have gum disease and need to visit your dentist.
- Remember the risks: If you don’t floss, you are much more likely to end up with periodontal disease. This can lead to gum recession, loose teeth, and tooth loss. Periodontal disease is also linked to other health conditions like diabetes and heart disease.
It pays to keep up with your oral health. By taking steps every day, like flossing, you will be able to show off a strong, healthy smile for many years to come. Best of luck with your New Year’s resolution from your Collinsville dentist!
About the Practice
At Collinsville Dental Associates, you’ll enjoy state-of-the-art dentistry in a small-town atmosphere where you can always feel right at home. We welcome patients of all ages, and our four-dentist team can perform an array of treatments under one roof. With technology like handheld intraoral cameras and all-digital X-rays, we are in a great position to provide you with optimal care. Your dentist in Collinsville will be happy to tell you more about the benefits of flossing during your next dental cleaning and exam, which you can schedule on our website or by calling (276) 647-1494.