According to the American Dental Association, or the ADA, statistics about flossing are concerning. In fact, it is reported that over 18% of Americans do not floss at all, while over 30% of Americans floss, but not on a daily basis. These numbers are problematic, as flossing is a vital part of maintaining good oral health and wellness. Dr. Sharon Schindler of Columbus, OH’s Schindler Dentistry is committed to educating patients on how to care for their teeth and gums to achieve and maintain oral health and wellness.
Why is flossing important?
Flossing is just as important as brushing the teeth, but many patients do not understand the purpose. The idea behind flossing is to remove any food particles that might become trapped between the teeth. Not only is there an aesthetic benefit to this (no one wants to be caught with parsley or cilantro between the teeth when they smile after their lunch hour!), but this also contributes to the health of the smile. How? Food particles that become trapped between the teeth can allow sugars and acids to form and pair with bacteria in the mouth. This, in turn, causes the formation of cavities. Additionally, poor oral health habits such as not flossing and brushing the teeth can cause problems such as periodontal disease to develop. Infection such as this, once it has developed, cannot be cured, only controlled, meaning preventative care is critical.
How do I know if I’m flossing correctly?
Flossing may be difficult for some patients to understand, but by talking to Dr. Sharon Schindler, patients can be educated on how to properly floss. We encourage patients to ask our dental team about the best way to floss, and how to floss without causing damage to the gums. We can walk patients through all the steps so they know exactly how to perform this routine task each day!
Call Dr. Sharon Schindler today to learn more about oral healthcare habits
Developing a routine for cleaning the teeth and gums is just one part of good dental health and wellness. If you live in the area of Columbus, OH and want to speak to a professional about your oral healthcare needs, call Schindler Dentistry today at (614) 586-0609 to request a consultation visit at 775 Yard Street, Suite #175.