Women’s Health:
What is flossing and why should you start it right away?

Let’s celebrate this Women’s Day with a healthy habit and start with flossing for the perfect radiant smile.

We Indians surely love chai, pakoras and sticky Mithaai. But what lurks between our teeth after enjoying these treats? Food debris and bacteria, forming a plaque disaster! With such diet practices, brushing twice may not be enough.

What is flossing?

Flossing is the act of removing food particles and plaque build-up between your teeth using a thin, flexible thread called dental floss. It removes food debris, plaque and bacteria that get lodged between teeth, where your toothbrush can't reach. This simple step helps prevent several oral health problems.

Why should you start flossing today?

• Prevents cavities: Plaque build-up between teeth can lead to cavities, especially in hard-to-reach areas. Flossing removes this plaque, protecting your teeth from decay.
• Combats gum diseases: Plaque also contributes to gingivitis (inflammation of the gums) and, if left untreated, can progress to periodontitis (severe gum disease). Flossing helps keep your gums healthy by removing plaque and reducing inflammation.
• Fresher breath: Food particles trapped between teeth can cause bad breath. Flossing removes these particles, leaving your breath feeling fresh and clean.
• Boosts overall health: Recent studies suggest a link between poor oral health and chronic health conditions like heart disease and diabetes. Flossing contributes to good oral hygiene, potentially reducing the risk of these diseases.
• Preventing tartar build-up: Regular flossing prevents the formation of tartar, a hardened form of plaque. Tartar can only be removed by a dentist and may lead to more serious oral health issues if neglected.

How to start flossing?

Before you start flossing, here are some basic information to keep in mind:

1. Choose the right flossing tool

• String floss: Classic and affordable, comes in waxed or unwaxed options.
• Water flosser: Electric device using pressurized water for a refreshing clean.
• Floss picks: Convenient option with a handle and pre-threaded floss.

2. Ace the technique

• Get a grip: Wind about 18 inches of floss around each middle finger, leaving a 2-inch cleaning section.
• Curve it: Gently slide the floss between teeth, following the curve of each tooth.
• Gentle sawing motion: Move the floss up and down, scraping the sides of each tooth to remove plaque.
• Don't force it: If floss snags, ease it out and try a new section.
• Don't skip the back: Back teeth are just as important as front teeth, so don't neglect them.
• Repeat and rinse: Floss each space between your teeth. Rinse your mouth with water afterwards.

3. Visit your healthcare provider

• Before you choose the floss type, visit your healthcare provider and take their suggestion.
• You can also ask them for personalized flossing guidance and recommendations.

4. Make it a habit

• Floss at least once a day, preferably before bedtime.
• Pair flossing with brushing to make it a part of your regular oral hygiene routine.
• You can also pick a flavoured floss for a more engaging experience.

5. Remember these additional tips:

• Start slow: If flossing is new, begin with a few teeth each day and gradually increase.
• Be patient: Bleeding gums may occur initially but it should improve with regular flossing.
• Don't expect immediate results: It might take a few weeks of consistent flossing to see and feel the difference.
• Involve your family: Encourage everyone in your household to floss together for a healthy habit everyone can benefit from.
• Reward yourself: Celebrate your flossing commitment with a small treat after a week or two of consistency.

Sources:
NHS
Healthline
WebMD
Hamilton Dental Clinic