Do You Floss Every Day?

Do You Floss Every Day?According to the American Dental Association, only 16% of Americans say they floss at least once a day. The reasons for not flossing daily as given by the surveyed people is that it is too time consuming, too painful, or just gross. Flossing is an important component to your oral hygiene routine. If you are not flossing every day, you should work out your reasons why so that you can add it as a daily habit. At your next cleaning at Smith Family Dentistry, ask for tips on how you can most efficiently floss your own teeth. Armed with tips and advice, you may feel more inclined to floss. 

Keep Floss In Convenient Places

The most obvious place to keep your floss is near your toothbrush. If you use a waterpik, you probably do keep that near your toothbrush in the bathroom or on your vanity. It can also be convenient to keep a pack of floss in your desk at work, in your glove compartment of your car, or in your purse or briefcase. Having floss readily available may help you remember to do it.

Set an Alarm on Your Phone

It does not take long for leftover bacteria in your mouth to form plaque that can cause tooth decay and gum disease. Flossing helps to remove bacteria and debris from between your teeth. Setting an alarm for the evening may help remind you to floss at least once a day.

Address Your Concerns

If you have a specific reason that you are not flossing (something other than forgetfulness), it is important to talk to your dentist. Painful, bleeding, puffy gums may be a sign of gum disease. Rather than just let that stop you from flossing, you could be getting some help and advice on how to manage and possibly reverse gum disease.

Everyone should be flossing every day

Flossing at least once a day helps to protect your smile. To schedule a consultation with Smith Family Dentistry in Greenville, TX call us at 903-455-5750. We proudly serve patients from Hunt County, Greenville, Royce City, Sulphur Springs, and all surrounding communities.