Flossing

We know here at McIff dental care, Flossing isn't the most convenient thing to do in your busy life. We just thought we would give you some encouragement with some statistics about flossing and some tips. Enjoy! 

Facts about flossing :

In 2010, Healthy People released some statistics about oral hygiene. These statistics showed that only about half of the American population claim to floss daily. In addition, 18.5% were found not to  floss at all. If that number doesn't impress you, check out this fact: A person who flosses once a day should use about 122 yards of floss every year. However, sales statistics show that only an average of 18 yards of floss per person is sold each year. Does that put it into perspective for you?

• 73% of people say they would rather go grocery shopping than floss
• Women are more likely to floss than men
• People aged 31-60 are more likely to floss than other age groups
• Approximately 40% of individuals who floss are flossing incorrectly

The Right way to floss:

When most people floss, they thread the floss through their teeth and then “saw” back and forth. This technique is actually harmful as it can wear the tooth. Continually flossing in this manner could ultimately result in creating a groove in the tooth.

The correct way to floss is to start at the top of the tooth near the gum line, and bring the floss down. Then, move onto a clean part of the floss and go to the next tooth. You don’t want to use the same part of the floss, because after one use, it is covered with plaque. Reusing it would just be adding to the bacteria that is already there.

You also want to be careful not to floss too aggressively, or you could cut into your gums and cause bleeding. Flossing once a day is plenty, and it is recommended that you floss at night. Flossing at night is more effective in the prevention of tooth decay or gum disease; otherwise, the bacteria would be sitting in your mouth overnight.