Why floss?

Photo: 1st Family Dental

Don’t lie to us. We all know that you’re not flossing as often as you should. Most patients start flossing a few days before their appointment thinking that it might somehow make up for the last six months. Flossing is one of the hardest habits to start, and we know that.

As a dental professional, I don’t even floss as often as I know I should. It seems like an annoying daily task, but it is crucial to maintaining adequate oral health. Unfortunately, your toothbrush can’t reach in between your teeth and that is where the floss comes in to save the day.

Flossing will help reduce the amount of decay causing bacteria that sit between your teeth. The longer that bacteria sits between your teeth, the faster decay will start to form. Flossing may also help with reducing bacteria that can cause bad breath. So, that quick minute it takes you to floss will save you more trips to the dentist
 

The bitewing radiographs, usually taken at your six month recall appointments, are what the dentist uses to diagnose the decay in the flossing contacts of your teeth. The picture below shows a bitewing of a patient with decay. 

Photo Credit: Dr. Spiller

It is important that you're allowing your office take these films at least once a year to watch for decay. Folks, let's make flossing a priority and stop our lies to the dentist.

For more information on flossing techniques and types of floss: Colgate
For more information on bitewing and other radiographs: Dr. Spiller