Should You Bother to Floss Your Teeth_ - Alphadentaclinic

1. Should You Bother to Floss Your Teeth? Flossing is seen by many as a tedious task. In Canada, only 37.5% of people brush their teeth and floss at least once a day. Our closest neighbor has even more interesting statistics. According to a 2015 American Academy of Periodontology survey, 55% of Americans said that they view flossing as less desirable than menial tasks such as washing dishes, waiting in a checkout line, or sitting in traffic. Recent news stories might have led you to believe that flossing is a moot point; after all, scientists don't have conclusive evidence that it does any good. However, many dentists and orthodontists in Brossard will tell you otherwise from personal experience. They can often see significant differences in the teeth and gums of people who regularly floss compared to those who don't. What the studies say Although extensive research proving flossing's efficacy is limited, small clinical studies have found some benefits to flossing. According to 12 well-controlled studies, for example, those who both brushed their teeth and used floss daily had significantly less mild gum disease than those who just brushed their teeth. These same reports concluded that using both methods also helps remove plaque better than brushing alone. However, there is no concrete proof that flossing can prevent periodontitis, a severe form of gum disease. Why is that? Because periodontitis often takes years to develop, but most flossing studies have been conducted over shorter timeframes. Also, when answering surveys about their health habits—such as flossing, working out, smoking, or eating—people tend to choose the responses they believe are “right.” As a result, studies in which researchers closely monitor the participants usually show that flossing is effective. However, real-world studies typically produce weaker evidence. The flossing-health connection Flossing daily is vital for your dental hygiene. Here’s how it helps: ● Get rid of plaque - Flossing regularly can help remove food particles from around your teeth, as well as plaque that’s built up between your teeth.

2. ● Reduce your risk of cavities - Flossing at least once a day can help remove hidden food particles and plaque, which lowers the likelihood of tooth decay. ● Prevent gum disease - The first signs of gingivitis are usually inflammation and bleeding around your gums. If left untreated, it can lead to a more serious infection called periodontitis. This can cause your gums to recede or pull away from your teeth, which may become loose over time due to diminished bone support. You can help reduce your risk of gum disease by brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing once a day. Professional teeth cleaning in Montreal every 6 months can also help keep your gums healthy. Nothing to lose There may not be a ton of scientific evidence to back up flossing benefits, but there also is little evidence that it causes any harm. Plus, it's affordable. Why not work it into your daily routine? If you're unclear about how to floss or have any questions regarding your dental health, don't hesitate to ask your dentist or orthodontist in Brossard. If standard floss is tough for you to use, they may be able to recommend alternatives, such as a water flosser or interdental cleaners. If you have braces, your orthodontist in Brossard can teach you how to use a floss threader or special orthodontic floss to clean your teeth. You may also be asked to come in more often for teeth cleaning in Montreal. Additional sources: https://www150.statcan.gc.ca/n1/pub/82-625-x/2019001/article/00010-eng.htm https://newsinhealth.nih.gov/2016/11/dont-toss-floss#:~:text=While%20the%20scientific%20evid ence%20for,about%20your%20teeth%20or%20gums. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22161438/