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Flossing
- Tips To Make Your Life Easier
Flossing
daily will benefit your dental health greatly. It cleans the areas in
your mouth that the toothbrush will never reach. Many people have
difficulties flossing so if this sounds familiar then read on.
This page will give you some practical help and to make life
a bit simpler.
The
Benefits Of Flossing
By
flossing every day you will reduce your chances of developing
gum disease significantly. Most gum disease starts in between the
teeth where your brush doesn't reach so this is the ONLY way
to prevent gum disease in this area.
Much
tooth decay starts in between teeth so you will reduce the chances
of this happening also.
You
will see the benefits in less than a week
The
Right Tools
Firstly,
get the correct tools for the job. We recommend Dental tape to most of
our patients because it is less likely to shred or get stuck in between
your teeth. There are many types on the market but when shopping look
for one that is a MONOFILAMENT. This just means that rather than shred
in between your teeth, it will break cleanly. (e.g. Glide Tape,
Sensodyne Gentle Tape, Oral B Satin Tape)
What
To Expect
If
you have not flossed for a few days (or more)
expect your gums to bleed. This happens because the gums are inflamed
and the trauma of cleaning them is enough to cause the bleeding to
start. If you floss
once every day your gums will stop bleeding by the third or fourth day. Remember
gums are there to keep blood in and bacteria out.
Don't
worry about pulling fillings or crowns out. Any filling that is so
loose that you can disturb it with a little piece of floss will
already be leaking and should be replaced anyway. Just view flossing
as an early warning
How
To get Started
Start
with the front teeth, they are easier to get to. Floss these teeth
for a few days and develop your skill before tackling the back ones.
Use
a flossing device. There are a range of devices available to help
you floss those difficult areas, ask the dentist or hygienist
to recommend the most suitable type for you.
Talk
to us.... we have plenty of experience in helping people overcome
their difficulties flossing we can help you too.
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