Flossing can seem like a chore. If you don’t do it regularly it might hurt, maybe maneuvering that tiny string isn’t easy for you, and it might seem like it just takes too long.
But we also know that flossing is crucial for your oral health. The bacteria that cause gum disease grow in colonies. Regular brushing helps to interrupt these colonies, but because 40% of the tooth’s surface falls between the teeth, the colonies continue to grow in those spaces. Cleaning in between those spaces ensures that bacteria are removed from the entire tooth surface.
For all the floss adverse, there’s good news: Floss alternatives are getting better and better. Give one of these non-floss options a try:
Not convinced? Try this. Brush your teeth like you normally would, then floss. As you floss, pay attention to the food, plaque and debris that you are removing. You will likely find that brushing leaves behind a great deal of material –none of which you want hanging around your teeth!
Remember – you don’t have to floss all of your teeth – just the ones you want to keep!
