Yes, Your Dentist Can Tell You Haven’t Flossed
Even though you’re supposed to brush twice a day and floss once a day, most people’s oral care routine consists of brushing at least once a day and flossing every once in a while. So, when it’s time for a biannual dentist appointment, they are compelled to pay a little closer attention to their teeth and gums to make their dentists think they have a more consistent routine than they actually do. It’s a very common phenomenon, but it’s one that can be harmful in the long run, especially when it comes to flossing.
Dentists and hygienists are trained to look for signs that your teeth and gums aren’t in the shape they should be. And while it’s possible to “trick” your dentist into thinking that you floss your teeth regularly once or twice, eventually, your gums are going to start telling a different story.
Brushing and flossing achieve different results for your mouth’s overall health. Brushing your teeth removes plaque above your gum line, but flossing removes plaque from below your gums. So, when you don’t floss, the plaque and harmful bacteria just sit in your mouth and create a host of issues. The most common condition that happens when you don’t floss regularly is gingivitis which occurs when the gums are inflamed, pain and bleeding because of the bacteria that’s trapped. And we’re pretty sure that no one wants to deal with that.
3 Tips to Help You Start Flossing Regularly
So, how can you make your dentist think that you’re flossing? By actually doing it, of course! There’s really no substituting or cheating your way into good oral hygiene. It’s important that you commit to a proper oral care routine to ensure your disturbing the plaque and bacteria that live under your gums so you can have a great checkup. Here are 3 easy ways you can start introducing flossing into your daily oral hygiene routine.
Set a Reminder
One way you can start any new habit is to set a daily reminder for yourself. Everyone leads busy lives, and it can be hard to commit to incorporating something new to the to-do list. That way, you can take the thinking out of the equation.
Create a Flossing Routine with Someone Else
It’s always easier to build a habit when there’s someone doing it alongside you. This could be your spouse, best friend, or even your child. No matter who it is set a designated time to floss together. That way, you can keep each other accountable and have a bit more fun with this daily task.
Keep Packs of Floss in Heavily-Trafficked Areas in Your Home
Even though most people floss when they’re already in the bathroom brushing your teeth, no one says that you explicitly have to do this. We know that the last thing you want to do at the end of the day is to get out of bed and floss after you’ve already tucked yourself in. To remedy this, simply keep packs on floss in places you’re likely to spend the most time, like on your bedside table, coffee table, or in your kitchen.
With these helpful tips, you’ll be flossing regularly in no time. And, if you’re in need of a dentist in the Westminster, MD area, don’t hesitate to reach out to All Smiles Care!
