Common Signs You Are Not Flossing Properly

At the outset, you should know that flossing just once a day is enough for good oral hygiene. More than that would be an overkill considering that plaque has a 24-hour incubation period.

Most people think that flossing is a waste of time, especially if they are already brushing two or three times a day anyway. Flossing properly, in addition to regular brushing of your teeth, will prevent gingivitis, tooth loss, and other periodontal diseases.

Red Flags to Look Out for If You Are Not Flossing Properly

It’s recommended that you floss at night before you retire for bed so the plaque doesn’t have all night to develop. We will always know that our patients are not flossing properly because there are red flags that are obvious to the trained eye like for instance, the tooth decay and cavities that develop between the teeth.

Second, not flossing properly will also be evident in the gums. Patients will report of tender or painful gums, and they can bleed very easily even when brushing. Swelling is your body telling you that there’s something wrong with your gums. Too much force during flossing may also cause some abrasions and cuts on the gums. Fortunately, this can be easily rectified because we can teach you the right away.

On the other end of the spectrum, flossing too frequently can also cause some problems. Your gums may become inflamed or even bleed in extreme cases. The gum line may also be damaged and this, in turn, will be the breeding ground for cavities. Lastly, halitosis or bad breath may also be an offshoot of wrong oral hygiene practices.

Do you want to know if you are flossing the right way? Contact our office so we can evaluate your teeth and find the telltale signs of improper flossing.