Reasons People Avoid Flossing
Many people don’t floss because its uncomfortable, and their gums bleed during and after. However, the benefits of flossing are not limited to healthy teeth and gums. Flossing gets rid of up to 40% of the gunk that brushing misses, including bacteria that can make you sick. A clean mouth promotes a healthy body, making for good reason to floss regularly. So, how can you get over the initial awfulness and get in the habit of flossing? It may be easier than you think.
Make Flossing Easier in One Week
There are varying opinions on how long it takes to form a habit. Putting that aside, this post focuses on a few things that can help you start and keep the habit, if you practice a few suggestions for a little more than one week. Our goal is to make flossing easier for you.
Bleeding Gums
First let’s address the bleeding. You may think that if you make your mouth bleed then you are doing something wrong. Interestingly, the most common reasons that gums bleed during flossing is a build up of plaque or tartar. Bacterial growth from excessive plaque or tartar along the gum line makes gums sensitive and susceptible to bleeding. Even a lack of brushing can make gums bleed easy. Don’t worry too much about it if your gums bleed when you begin a flossing habit. After one or two weeks of brushing and flossing the bleeding should stop. If it doesn’t, talk to Dr. Mathews. Healthy gums shouldn’t bleed during flossing.
The Awkwardness of Flossing
Some can’t get into the habit of flossing because its awkward and challenging to do it. However, could it be you just need a lesson on good technique when flossing? Check out this helpful video from Howcast that includes tips on making flossing easier and less awkward.
Tight Teeth
I personally hate it when the floss gets stuck between some teeth that are closer together than others. If this happens to you try getting a floss that fits between your teeth. The key might be waxed floss. Waxed floss slips effortlessly between even the tightest teeth. It also helps to have good grip on it which means breaking off at least eighteen inches of floss at a time. Like the video suggested. If that doesn’t help, try dental picks or other flossing tools. There are many different options available these days.
Part of Your Day
Add flossing to your to do list. If you make a mental, paper, or electronic list of things you need to remember each day, add flossing to that list. Combine it with other tasks so it doesn’t add time to your day. Some floss in the shower, where you have the added benefit to running water to compliment your flossing. Even if you make it its own thing, flossing only takes a few minutes, and its benefits are worth your time.
Don’t Underestimate the Benefits of Flossing
You can do it! Don’t let anything stop you. Keep in mind that without it you’re leaving your mouth 40% uncleaned, and your overall health could suffer as a result. In the short term, you will feel fresher and more confident of good breath and a white smile. Long term, you will prolong the life of your teeth and gums and could keep your beautiful smile for a lifetime. Don’t underestimate the benefits of flossing. We hope this post helps make the healthy practice of regular flossing easier for you and your family.
