Kate's Fear of TMJ

5 Reasons People Don't Floss

Although everyone knows you should brush your teeth at least twice a day, many people don't bother flossing their teeth at all. Flossing should be an important part of everyone's daily routine because it removes the bacterial plaque from hard-to-reach areas between your teeth and gums. If you're not flossing every day, you may be able to relate to at least one of these common reasons people don't floss:

It hurts.

If flossing your teeth causes discomfort, swelling or bleeding of the gums, you actually need to floss more often because you already have gingivitis. Eventually, flossing won't cause you any of these uncomfortable symptoms, just as long as you continue to do it every day.

They use a sonic toothbrush.

Even the most expensive, high-powered sonic toothbrush cannot replace your dental floss. Dental floss is designed to reach areas of your teeth that a toothbrush simply can't reach.

It takes too long.

Although you should be brushing twice a day, the American Dental Association recommends flossing only once a day to maintain good dental health. So, you can choose to do it either at bedtime or in the morning, depending on when you have more time. Plus, it really only takes a few minutes to thoroughly floss your teeth so it shouldn't dramatically interfere with your schedule.

They always forget.

If you neglect to floss your teeth because you're forgetful, consider creating reminders for yourself. Keep your floss container out in plain sight next to your toothbrush and place a sticky note on the bathroom mirror reminding you to floss. Eventually, after flossing consistently, it will become as much of a habit as brushing your teeth.

They don't have enough dexterity.

There are a number of flossing options that can help you if you have limited dexterity or only have use of one hand. Dental floss holders, disposable flossers and interdental cleaning picks are just a few of the options available for people with limited dexterity. Your dentist can also suggest other alternative flossing instruments that might work best for you.

Hopefully the advice given will help you make flossing a daily habit. At first it may feel like a chore, but eventually, daily flossing will become just as much of a regular hygiene habit as taking a shower or brushing your teeth. For more tips to make flossing a habit, talk to local dentists such as Kyle J Frisinger DMD.


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