At Clifton & Mauney Orthodontics & Pediatric Dentistry, we want all of our patients to practice good oral hygiene. This will help improve your oral health and ensure your dental and orthodontic care is easier. Oral hygiene comes down to consistent and effective brushing and flossing. Our pediatric dentists in Chapel Hill are passionate about getting kids and adults excited about flossing and teaching them why it is so important!
Flossing is Essential
We understand that flossing is everyone’s least favorite part of their oral hygiene routine, however, it is extremely important to your dental health! Our orthodontist and dentist want to stress just how important flossing is and how it can benefit your oral health. First, flossing helps uncover trapped food and debris in between your teeth and gums, and braces (if you have them). Unfortunately, even the best brushing techniques cannot reach these areas. Second, flossing removes plaque from the side of your teeth. If this is left on your teeth, it can quickly build up to create further dental health issues down the road.
Risks of Not Flossing
If you fail to clean between your teeth and gums properly, your dental health will suffer. Our pediatric dentist recommends flossing for all patients once per day to avoid these dental health conditions:
- Tartar Build Up: If plaque is not removed daily, it will harden into tartar. Unfortunately, once the tartar has formed, you cannot remove it yourself, a dental professional must do it. Tartar can also cause your teeth to look yellow or brown as it builds up.
- Gum Disease: Plaque and tartar build-up can quickly lead to gum disease. First, like gingivitis, early-stage gum disease, and later as periodontitis. If your gums are red, inflamed, and sensitive, you may already be suffering from early gum disease. Talk to our Chapel Hill dentists about how you can reverse your gum disease with flossing!
- Cavities: Flossing helps remove food and bacteria trapped between your teeth that can break down and cause tooth decay. Slowly but surely, a cavity will form. By flossing once daily, you can reduce your risk of cavities.
Remember, it’s just as important to floss with your braces as it was before your braces. All of the Clifton & Mauney patients should practice daily flossing, regardless of orthodontic hardware.
Schedule an Appointment with Clifton & Mauney Orthodontics & Pediatric Dentistry Today!
Avoid harmful dental health conditions by flossing every day! If you have questions or concerns about your dental hygiene routine, contact us today. We will be happy to answer your questions and show you the proper way to brush and floss to avoid cavities and gum disease. Schedule your next teeth cleaning online or by calling our office at 919-933-1007. We look forward to seeing you again soon!
