As the perceived wisdom goes, flossing helps keep your teeth healthy and prevents gum disease. However, studies in recent years have called into question this long-established recommendation, see also https://blog.teethremoval.com/experts-insist-flossing-does-nothing-to-limit-tooth-decaycould-they-be-correct/. So what are the benefits of flossing, if any? Despite the apparent lack of evidence for any health benefits of flossing, both the British and American dental associations still recommend incorporating it into your daily routine. And whilst the evidence to support flossing isn’t there, there isn’t any evidence to show that the activity doesn’t have any benefits.
The purpose of using dental floss is to remove food and other residue from between the teeth. It can also help to prevent bloody gums and inflammation from gingivitis, as well as reduce the build-up of plaque on teeth. Reducing all of these factors can help prevent gum disease. So although there is little in the way of compelling evidence to floss daily, there could certainly be some benefits. However, flossing can sometimes be damaging when not performed correctly. With poor technique and over eagerness, it’s possible to damage both the teeth and the gums.
The useful infographic below gives you all the details and tips you need to start flossing correctly. I believe it it important to floss daily to maintain your dental health and is especially important if you are deciding to retain any wisdom teeth.
The recommendation of the ADA continues to be that patients brush twice a day with a fluorinated toothpaste, floss or use interdental cleaning once a day, and see their dentists on a regular basis. That still is the best advice we can give patients as far as maintaining their oral health.