Why do people hate flossing

Cleaning the plaque off of each tooth surface by flossing removes this harmful bacteria and stops it from creating cavities.

In the same manner, the bacteria in plaque cause gum disease. The toxins produced by the bacteria induce an inflammatory response by the body. This leads to red, puffy, tender and bleeding gums also called gingivitis. When left in place for too long, the plaque hardens into tartar also called calculus , which cannot be removed with flossing. Because flossing removes plaque and the dangerous bacteria that cause cavities and gum disease, it means you will need less dental work over your lifetime.

We know that no one enjoys having dental work. It takes time out of your busy schedule. Many experience serious anxiety about having dental work. If you suffer from dental fear or anxiety, you should be flossing every single day because it will keep you out of those stressful situations! Not only is dental work stressful for some people.

It is also relatively expensive. Current scientific research shows a very strong link between dental disease and other illnesses like heart disease and diabetes. People who have heavy plaque buildup on their teeth are more likely to have heavy plaque buildup in their arteries. Patients with unchecked gum disease are at a higher risk for blocked arteries, high blood pressure, heart attacks and strokes.

This is extremely important for people with diabetes to understand. Plaque buildup makes it harder for you to control your blood sugar. When people do not floss, food debris can remain in between the teeth indefinitely. You know what old food debris smells like? If you are a parent, you undoubtedly know how difficult it can be to encourage children to develop healthy habits.

Brushing and flossing are amongst the most challenging. If a child is not taught to floss after brushing from an early age, it is likely they will live most of their young adult and adult lives believing that just brushing is good enough. Whereas brushing your teeth can make them feel smoother and look whiter, flossing often lacks any kind of immediate reward that makes the activity seem worthwhile.

As a result, the positive behavior flossing is not reinforced. Without reinforcement, there is no motivation to repeat the act in the future. People with unhealthy gums suffer negative feedback in the form of swollen, bloody, or agitated gums that cause pain and discomfort.

Negative feedback is one of the biggest reasons children and adults avoid flossing, and it makes it difficult to get excited about adopting the habit. Unfortunately, this can lead to serious infection, gum disease, and a variety of other health conditions. At Assure A Smile , we believe gum disease may cause heart disease when left untreated. They typically come in small packs that can get used at home or taken with you on the go.

An interdental brush contains a handle and a thin-bristled flossing head. They are great for those with joint or mobility problems. It is important to choose the right size of the interdental brush. Your dental professional can help. You can brush with an interdental brush once a day. It does not need to get thrown away at the end of a single-use.

You only dispose of them after they have become worn and bent. For those who prefer traditional dental floss, options do exist to make your flossing more comfortable. The more expensive floss called single-filament PTFE slides easily between your teeth and is shred-resistant. Nylon floss is less expensive but may be prone to tear and shred. Traditional mint and bubble-gum are no longer the only kid-friendly options. Lately, flavors like a cupcake, ranch, and even bacon flavor can entice your littles to a little extra dental hygiene.

It is important to hold the floss tautly and get to the bass of each tooth. Never snap the floss, and remove it with the same gentle motion you use to move between teeth. The easiest way to floss is different for each person. With the right tools, you can have a healthier mouth and body in no time.

For more information on dental care, read our blog today. I Hate Flossing! Previous Next. View Larger Image.