Wait…There’s a National Flossing Day?
November 17, 2021Friday, November 26th is National Flossing Day. You read that right, National Flossing Day. And while a day dedicated to the habit of flossing may seem silly, it’s actually quite important. In fact, the only nationally representative analysis to determine Americans’ flossing habits found that a mere 30% of the population perform the task daily, while just over 32% of people report not flossing at all.
Why Floss?
Flossing is one of the surest ways to remove debris and plaque from in between the teeth. These are things that even the most advanced toothbrushes and inventive brush heads cannot touch and, when left in place, they increase risks for several oral health problems, including tooth infection and gum disease.
Plaque takes around 48 hours to harden into tartar and can become very difficult to remove when left in place for longer periods. Flossing daily helps to remove plaque from hard-to-reach spaces before it has a chance to harden, reducing the risk of developing decay, infection, and even halitosis. Removing plaque before it hardens also helps to reduce the amount of time we need to spend scraping your teeth during routine dental visits.
When Should I Floss?
Flossing should be done before you brush your teeth at least once each day. Studies have found that flossing before your brush helps to remove a greater amount of particles and plaque, helping to keep the teeth and gums healthier. Some people choose to floss in the morning before they brush. Others find flossing before bed to be more suitable. The time of day is not important. That you floss is. Taking time to perform the task at least once a day can have a profound impact on your oral health.
There are several options available, including floss picks and water flossers, that can help make the task easier. During your next visit, we can discuss the various options, assess the spacing of your teeth, and help you choose which one is best for your needs.
To schedule your next appointment at our Manhattan Office, please call 212-452-3344 today. We welcome patients from New York City and all surrounding areas.