It’s the worst. The hygienist asks “Do you floss, hun?”.
You respond enthusiastically “Of course!”, knowing full well you haven’t touched floss since removing it from the medicine cabinet a year ago.
Real talk is that most Americans don’t floss regularly. In fact, 20% don’t floss at all. So congrats if you do.
I get it. The last thing we want to do after a long day is floss. It’s right up there with burpees. However, there are tricks that make this essential task, dare I say, enjoyable.
But first, let’s look at the what and the why of flossing.
You see, it’s all about irrigation. Flossing removes all that sticky bacteria and plaque your toothbrush missed. Your toothbrush is a mighty tool but it can’t do it all on its own. Flossing cleans where your toothbrush can’t.
Swelling, soreness and bleeding are common side effects when you start flossing again. Unfortunately, this is the body’s natural response to you irritating it with that pesky string.
Is there a way to gain all the benefits of flossing without the swelling and soreness, though? Spoiler alert: Yes, there is! Again, more on this later.
Now let’s move to the WHY.
1.
Flossing does 40% of the work in removing sticky bacteria, or plaque, from your teeth. Every tooth has five surfaces and when we don’t floss, we are immediately missing two of these surfaces. Plaque build-up can lead to swollen gums, tooth decay, and cavities, or gum disease.
2.
Flossing is good for your whole body.
When you have good oral health, you are reducing the risk of stroke, diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, respiratory disease, and heart disease—all are linked to gum health and periodontitis.
3.
Prevents Gingivitis
If you thought flossing hurt, gingivitis is an early stage gum disease where your gums become swollen and bleed even easier. Sadly, if your gums are bleeding, it’s an indication that you should be brushing and flossing, gulp, more frequently.
4.
Saves You Money
Yes. You read that right. Hear me out. Flossing keeps your gums healthy. Healthy gums mean healthier teeth. Healthier teeth mean cheaper and less frequent trips to your dentist. Less trips to the dentist is good news for your mouth and bank account.
5.
Your Smile will Thank You
Flossing helps with fresher breath, whiter teeth and peace of mind when you smile. That not only makes sense. It feels good, too.
There has been a recent breakthrough with Water Flossers. This genius device allows you to realize all the benefits above from flossing without the soreness, inflammation and bleeding that comes with string flossing.
It uses a powerful stream of water to dislodge and blast plaque and bacteria to oblivion. It’s more than just a flosser. It cleans your whole mouth.
Not only is it effective, it is oddly satisfying to use the power of water to clean interdental spaces.
Did you know, before plastics, toothbrush bristles were made of hairs... from hogs back? Maybe one day, we’ll look back at barbaric string flossers and think the same now that Water Flossers have arrived.