Why should I floss?

To maintain a healthy smile, it is important to not only brush the teeth and visit the dentist, but to floss at least once a day. Flossing is a great way to get to places your toothbrush cannot. There are lots of people who struggle with flossing for a variety of reasons, either the inability to hold the floss correctly or patients who floss incorrectly and cause their gums to bleed. Technique and practice are essential, and the team at Montefiore Medical Center can help educate individuals who are unsure if they are performing this necessary task correctly. 

What happens if I don’t floss? 

Some patients leave flossing out of the equation when it comes to daily oral health habits. This is a bad idea, as flossing is needed to clean between the teeth. Food particles between teeth might not be removed with traditional brushing. The only way to do this is by flossing. Flossing can keep plaque buildup from occurring, which is a contributor to problems such as gum disease or tooth decay. Patients who have gum disease may notice other problems such as swollen gums, chronic bad breath, and tooth loss. 

How can I floss more effectively? 

First and foremost, the dental providers at Montefiore Medical Center can educate individuals on how to floss properly. Patients can hold up a mirror while our dental hygienists show them how to effectively remove food from between the teeth. Patients who have trouble managing traditional floss may want to use floss that comes with special holders, or might want to think about investing in a water pick, which uses a special handheld device that streams water to accomplish the same task as flossing. 

Do you struggle with flossing properly? 

Do not be ashamed—flossing correctly might take some practice. If you are having difficulty flossing and want some education and guidance, contact the team at Montefiore Medical Center. Our team of providers at our 11 convenient locations can help you learn the techniques needed to get the most out of daily flossing! Call the main line at (888) 700-6623 to request an appointment at any location throughout the area.