Can Flossing Actually be Bad for Your Gums?
Newspaper article claims that flossing is not as effective as thought.
A newspaper article referenced in the Daily Mail today (1), written by a professor of dental sciences at Newcastle University, suggests that using dental floss may actually be harmful for your teeth and gums. This probably comes as a surprise to our patients at the Smile Dental Clinic, who we have been advising for many years, to floss as well as brush their teeth and gums. So, what are our own thoughts on the topic?
Flossing
Firstly, the article points out that it considers flossing to be harmful if done incorrectly as it can push bacteria further under the gum line. The key word here though is ‘incorrectly’. Generally speaking, flossing is still highly effective at removing food debris and bacteria from between the teeth. We are always happy for one of our Bromley dentists or hygienists to show you the correct technique for flossing so that you can do this effectively.
Mouthwash
As well as suggesting a power toothbrush instead of a regular one, although we feel that this would not help too much between the teeth, the paper goes on to suggest the use of an alcohol free mouthwash as an effective alternative. There are two parts to the argument for the use of mouthwash though. Firstly, is it effective, and, secondly, is it actually an alternative?
A mouthwash can be very effective at helping to remove the more inaccessible bacteria that is situated between the teeth and on the gums. The ‘swishing’ action too, will help to dislodge food debris that would otherwise accumulate and decay. It is a practice that is also more likely to be done than flossing (currently, only around 17% of people floss).
It is important to note that article suggests using only an alcohol free one though, as alcohol increases the potential risk of oral cancers and causes a dry mouth, gingival bacteria’s best friend! Whether it should be an alternative though, we don’t entirely agree. In our opinion, flossing is still a good way to help reduce the risk of gingivitis and periodontitis, when done correctly. Mouthwash though is certainly a helpful addition, and, again, we are happy to recommend effective ones that you can use.
Don’t forget
Whilst brushing, flossing and mouthwash will certainly go a very long way to keeping your teeth and gums in good health, you should not forget to also visit the Smile Dental Practice approximately every six months for your oral health check ups. By doing so, any treatments that might be needed can be kept to a minimum.
Call your Bromley dentist today on 020 8462 2473.
1. http://www.dailymail.co.uk/health/article-3273953/Flossing-teeth-waste-time-does-HARM-good-leading-dental-expert-claims.html