Dental Care Should you floss?

A lot have been said about flossing your teeth. Some say it is as important for your oral health as brushing, whereas others say it is even more crucial.

In a 2016 investigation by The Associated Press, it was found that the available studies which recommend flossing teeth are scientifically inadequate. However, there was also no proof that flossing is useless or harmful.

So, as absence of proof isn't proof of absence, dentists around the world advise to not give up flossing.

Each of our teeth has five surfaces. The three of these -- front, back and biting edge -- can be cleaned with a toothbrush.

However, the sides of your teeth, which sit adjacent to other teeth and can capture food particles and bacteria, require a different tool to be cleaned.

Here's where flossing comes in. When flossing is done properly, it remains the most effective way to remove damaging plaque from between two teeth, dentists say.

It is important to clean these areas as failure to do so can cause gum disease, such as gingivitis or periodontitis.

Dentists also suggest flossing at least once every 24 hours as otherwise plaque may harden which will later require expert help to clean.

However, flossing properly is important to reap its benefits.

If you find thin, soft threaded floss hard to use, you can try dental tape, which is thicker. Do not be too aggressive with the floss to avoid harming your gums.

Gums sometimes bleed when you first begin to floss. It usually stops after a few days. If it does not, see your dentist.