Nearly a year ago, newspaper headlines had a series of similar messages about how flossing doesn't work! This was due to the US health department downgrading flossing from it's list of daily recommendations.
A year on - anyone still flossing? should we be flossing?
Well the answer is - it depends on your teeth! Keeping inbetween your teeth clean is crucial and should be part of your daily oral hygiene regime, but can't be done just with a toothbrush!
"Floss every tooth you'd like to keep, and don't floss the teeth you don't mind losing"
If the spaces inbetween your teeth are tight, floss
If they are wide enough for floss to be ineffective - use inter-dental brushes
There's also the option of JETWASHING your teeth!! Water flossers are becoming increasingly more popular and have been found to be effective
Which ever you decide on adding to your daily oral hygiene regime, make sure you are also doing the following:
- Brush twice daily with a fluoride toothpaste
- Don't snack on sugary foods and drinks through the day
- Visit your dentist regularly
Feel free to message me for any dental queries :)
Dr E