How often do you Floss............................
The Oral Health Foundation advise us that 1 in 3 adults have never flossed or cleaned in-between their teeth. For those of us who are regular interdental cleaners, the reasons to do this daily are easy to feel and see.
Flossing is an important oral hygiene practice. Tooth decay and gum disease can develop when plaque is allowed to build up on teeth and along the gum line. Together with food debris, water and other components, the plaque build-up around the teeth and on the gum line will contribute to disease in teeth and gums. Each tooth has five surfaces. If you don't floss, or use interdental brushes you are leaving at least two of the surfaces unclean.
If your gums bleed when you brush or floss your teeth, you might shrug it off or think this is normal. But bleeding from the gums indicates an underlying problem. Factors like brushing too vigorously, injury, pregnancy, and inflammation (Gum disease) can contribute to bleeding gums.
The health risks associated with Gum disease
In recent years gum disease has been linked with general health conditions such as diabetes, strokes, cardiovascular disease, poor pregnancy outcomes and even dementia. More research is needed to understand how these links work but there is more and more evidence that having a healthy mouth and gums can help improve your general health.
Your dentist or dental hygienist will be able to advise you with regards to which floss or interdental brushes are the best for you. They will also be able to demonstrate the most effective and safe way for you to floss and brush your teeth.
At Ernevale House we believe prevention is better than cure and we are passionate about enabling you to care for your teeth and gums. If you have not visited your hygienist in a while book an appointment today, we look forward to seeing you.