With your busy schedule, sometimes you have to decide which one of your routines will have to be sacrificed. Unfortunately, some aspect of your dental hygiene can easily be abandoned. But your dentist in Dublin warns that this could be a big mistake, especially if it involves you skipping out on flossing. He says brushing isn’t enough and he’ll explain why as you continue reading. Also, he’ll discuss how your oral hygiene and preventive dentistry work hand-in-hand to keep your mouth healthy.
Why is Flossing So Important?
The two main pieces to your oral hygiene are brushing and flossing your teeth. Far too often, though, the latter is abandoned because it is considered as just an extra. The reality is that when you only brush your teeth, you are cleaning 60 percent of the surface. That leaves a third of your ivories susceptible to harmful bacteria.
Flossing probes the areas that your toothbrush can’t get into – between your teeth and just below the gum line. These are places that bacteria and leftover food particles hide and cause havoc, contributing to the development of plaque.
If allowed to fester, the built-up plaque will begin to release acids that cause tooth decay and can lead to periodontitis (inflammation of the gums). The good news, though, is that this is all preventable.
The Marriage Between Preventive Care and Oral Hygiene
The best way to protect your mouth, teeth and gums is to form a marriage between the preventive care that you’ll receive at your dentist’s office and brushing and flossing your teeth at least twice a day. The latter practices deal with the day-to day routines that are so vital to your health, while the former provides the expert input that ensures that you’re staying on track.
Here’s what happens at preventive dentistry appointments:
- Cleanings – The thorough cleaning that you’ll get at your dentist’s office will ensure that any built-up plaque and tartar are removed from your teeth. This is important because these two nemeses of your oral health can open the door to gum disease if not addressed.
- Examinations – While there, your dentist will also perform a tedious examination of your mouth, face and neck. He and the dental hygienist will be able to tell from the moment you open your mouth whether you’ve been flossing in tandem with your brushing.
Just remember that you’re involved in a constant battle for the health of your mouth, teeth and gums. Thus, it’s best to not ignore any weapon you have in your arsenal. So be sure to floss consistently and visit your dentist so that you can always stay two steps ahead of the oral maladies that lurk in the shadows.
About the Author
A proud graduate of The Ohio State University College of Dentistry, Dr. Eric Buck has the same burning passion for helping people that he had when he first obtained his degree. In his quest to be the best that he can be, he maintains memberships with several professional organizations. Dr. Buck practices at Distinctive Smiles of Dublin and can be reached for more information through his website.