A lot of people chose health as their New Year goal. Maybe it’s better food choices or more physical activity to your daily routine. This year, consider your oral health as part of your goal and aim for daily flossing! Starting a routine can be a challenge, but understanding the importance of keeping your teeth and gums healthy can have huge health (and financial) benefits for you and your family.
The ADA reports:
USA Today (12/31, Oglesby) included flossing daily in a list of “small New Year’s resolutions with big payoffs.” The article added, “Though flossing’s role in health and hygiene was questioned in news articles in 2016, flossing remains ‘an essential part of taking care of your teeth and gums,’ along with brushing twice daily and regular dental checkups, according to the American Dental Association. Flossing prevents the buildup of plaque, or a film of bacteria, in places tooth brushes cannot reach, and therefore helps to preserve tooth and gum health, the association said.”
MouthHealthy.org provides resources for patients on flossing, including information on the correct flossing technique. The ADA provides a list of floss and interdental cleaners with the ADA Seal of Acceptance.
Women’s Health (1/2, Mateo) states that flossing regularly is “crucial to keeping your teeth and gums healthy,” noting American Dental Association spokesperson Dr. Maria Lopez Howell explains “the point of it is to remove the buildup of plaque between your teeth.” The article adds that “not flossing can lead to bad breath, cavities,” and other oral health problems.
The Oral Health Topics on ADA.org and MouthHealthy.org provide additional information on interdental cleaning for dental professionals and patients. The ADA provides a list of floss and interdental cleaners with the ADA Seal of Acceptance.
Your Life. Your Smile. Your Orthodontist! 