We all know how important it is to brush our teeth but how many of us neglect to floss? The fact is that flossing is a vital part of keeping your mouth nice and healthy and ought to form part of your routine. Not doing so is just helping plaque to keep a hold in your mouth and put you at risk of dental decay and other oral conditions.
Flossing is the act of pulling a thin piece of tape between your teeth. It is done in order to remove plaque which can easily hide there. Brushing your teeth might get rid of the plaque which is on the surface of your teeth, but it doesn’t matter how well you brush, chances are some it will still remain between your teeth.
If plaque is allowed to stay there between your teeth then it can start to break down the protective layer of enamel which keeps your teeth safe. Cavities can begin to form and the nerves inside your teeth can become compromised. Further, a build up of plaque on the gum line of your teeth can leave you open to contracting gum disease like gingivitis or its more advanced form, periodontitis.
Flossing might be a little painful to begin with if you haven’t done it before. Gums are sensitive and having tape dragged across them might cause the tissue to break and an amount of bleeding to occur. This ought to stop in time but if it doesn’t you should alert your dentist.
Talk to your City of Leeds dentist if you need any more advice about the benefits of flossing and take the next step towards enhancing your oral health.
Posts Tagged ‘periodontis’
Flossing will help your oral health, say City of Leeds dentists
Tuesday, March 29th, 2011Get healthier teeth by treating gum disease at Central Leeds dentist
Sunday, January 31st, 2010
The easiest way to make sure you have healthy teeth is to have healthy gums. After all, teeth are secured by gum tissue so having unhealthy gums affected by disease will have a negative impact on the teeth as well. Gum disease is very common in the UK with three out of four adults suffering from at least the milder form of the disease at some stage in their life. Gum disease is easily treated in its early stages with improved dental hygiene and some treatment from a dentist. This will not only improve the appearance of your gums but will also help to keep the teeth strong, healthy and free from decay.
Gum disease is caused by plaque acid destroying gum tissue. Plaque is the sticky substance that coats the teeth and gums consisting of bacteria and food debris. It is usually the most dangerous after eating which it is why dentists always recommend brushing of flossing after eating. Although mild gum disease is easily treated, the more serious form of the disease, also called periodontitis, is a different proposition. This may require more severe treatment such as anti-biotics and in extreme cases some tissue removal and even a stay in hospital.
Central Leeds can help patients to spot the first signs of gum disease and offer advice on the best ways to avoid it. They can also treat any gum disease they notice during routine check ups. Keeping your gums healthy will make keeping your teeth healthy all the more easy to help you have the perfect smile, framed by perfect gums.