Did you know that brushing alone only cleans about 60% of your teeth? Luckily, that’s where flossing comes in! Not only can it clean the remaining 40%, but it also removes plaque from the areas your toothbrush cannot reach and prevents cavities from forming between your teeth. Unfortunately, far too few patients floss correctly. With this in mind, a dentist in Jacksonville is sharing five common mistakes and how to correct them!
Mistake #1: You’re Not Flossing Enough
Did you know that 37% of Americans floss less than once a day and an additional 30% say they never floss? These statistics are especially concerning since dentists recommend flossing twice a day to keep your oral health in pristine condition. So, if you aren’t flossing often enough, there is no time like the present to start!
Mistake #2: You’re Flossing at the Wrong Time
While the frequency in which you floss is important, the time of day is equally as crucial. Since saliva flow decreases when you sleep, the food particles, plaque, and bacteria are left alone to wreak havoc on your teeth. To prevent this from happening, make sure to always floss your teeth before bed.
Mistake #3: You’re Brushing First
According to a study in the Journal of Periodontology, patients who pick up the floss first had a significantly lower amount of plaque between their teeth. Plus, the fluoride in the toothpaste can reach more of your tooth’s surface if the area has been cleaned with floss first. Therefore, don’t hesitate to switch it up by starting your oral care routine with floss!
Mistake #4: You’re Not Using the Right Floss
To keep your unique smile in pristine condition, it is important to use floss designed with your teeth in mind. For example, patients who have dental work and tight spaces in their mouth should use a thinner material. On the other hand, if you have bigger gaps between your teeth, a floss with a larger surface area is ideal. If you are unsure which kind is best for you, ask your dental team at your routine appointment!
Mistake #5: You’re Stopping When You See Blood
Even the most avid flosser can experience bleeding gums on occasion. However, continuing to neglect your gums is not the answer! Instead, continue to floss your teeth twice a day and call your dentist if the symptoms persist. From there, they can conduct an examination and determine the source of the issue.
From timing to frequency, there are a lot of factors that influence a proper flossing regimen. Fortunately, you can use the above mistakes and flossing tips as a guide. That way, you can keep your teeth and gums in pristine condition for years to come!
About the Practice
At Jacksonville Complete Dentistry, patients can enjoy world-class service, high-quality dentistry, and a comprehensive array of services all at one convenient location. Whether you are overdue for your bi-yearly appointment or are simply looking to take your oral health to the next level, Dr. Rose Johnson and Dr. Wayne Barker will give you the personalized care you deserve and the top-notch dental care you are looking for. If you have any questions about flossing properly or need a professional cleaning, don’t hesitate to visit their website or give them a call at 904-645-6457.