{"id":4487,"date":"2018-09-13T13:18:56","date_gmt":"2018-09-13T20:18:56","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/goosecreekdental.com\/?p=4487"},"modified":"2018-09-13T13:18:56","modified_gmt":"2018-09-13T20:18:56","slug":"flossing-101","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.carolinacompletedental.com\/blog\/flossing-101\/","title":{"rendered":"Flossing 101"},"content":{"rendered":"

\"\"How do you feel when you see that little plastic floss container in your medicine cabinet? Eagerness to achieve that clean feeling in your mouth? Or regret over a habit you have trouble keeping? However you feel about floss, one thing is true \u2013 this habit is equal parts simple and incredibly effective for improving your oral health. Carolina Complete dentists Dr. Barganier, Dr. Zuffi, Dr. Williams, and Dr. McAdams<\/a>\u00a0share more below about why you should floss, how to floss, and what to do if flossing causes your gums to bleed.<\/p>\n

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What Is Floss?<\/h3>\n

Floss is a simple thread designed specially to clean between your teeth (the hardest spots in your mouth to reach) comfortably and effectively. Floss was invented around 1820 and was first seen on store shelves decades later. There are countless brands and types of floss. It can be thin or thick, flavored or unflavored. Most often, floss is waxed to help it move smoothly between and around your teeth. When buying floss, be sure to find one that has the ADA Seal of Acceptance (it looks like a small square) to be sure the product is both safe and effective.<\/p>\n

Why Should I Floss?<\/h3>\n

Your toothbrush and floss go so well together, they should be married! In addition to brushing your teeth twice a day, it\u2019s recommended that everybody floss once a day (even small children). Used together, brushing and flossing are crucial habits for maintaining good oral health and a beautiful smile. According to the American Dental Association<\/a>, flossing can remove up to 80% of the plaque on your teeth. Plaque is a naturally occurring substance in your mouth, but it must be removed regularly to prevent cavities<\/a>, gum disease<\/a> and bad breath (halitosis). Over time, plaque can build up and become very difficult to remove. Brushing and flossing every day gives you a head start on maintaining healthy teeth and gums.<\/p>\n

You may see some recent research that says flossing isn\u2019t necessary if you already brush your teeth. But dentists still recommend flossing, because floss is the only method that can completely clean the tight spots between your teeth and around the gumline.<\/p>\n

How Do I Floss?<\/h3>\n

Flossing every day is important. Whenever is convenient for you is fine – as long as it gets the job done. If you\u2019re looking for the most effective flossing session, we recommend flossing at night before you brush. Here\u2019s how:<\/p>\n