Flossing your teeth daily was included in a recent article published by TIME Magazine titled “16 Unexpected Ways to Add Years to Your Life.”
The article mentions that not only does flossing rid the food that gets trapped in between your teeth, but it also removes the film of bacteria that forms before it has a chance to harden into tartar. Lack of flossing can prompt low-grade inflammation of the gums and can lead to periodontal disease. Oral bacteria and cardiovascular disease can be linked together as many studies show. The American Dental Association recommends flossing at least once a day.
Flossing is a crucial part of any oral health care routine, including kids! A child’s teeth should be flossed as soon as he or she has at least two teeth that touch.
The American Dental Association says to keep in mind that flossing should not be painful. If you feel discomfort when you first start to floss, don’t give up. With daily brushing and flossing the discomfort should ease within a week or two. If the soreness continues, you should talk to your dentist.
There are other flossing methods if traditional flossing isn’t for you. There are an assorted variety of dental picks, or pre-threaded flossers, be careful to use them properly to avoid damaging your gums.
If you stick with flossing, you will have adopted a healthy habit for life along with possibly adding years to it!