Flossing is essential to maintaining good oral health and should be incorporated into your teeth cleaning routine every day. Many people neglect this habit, however; only 16 percent of Americans report flossing on a daily basis. With November 23 marking National Flossing Day, it’s the perfect time to reiterate why you should make time for this task.

Why Proper Teeth Cleaning Requires Flossing

National Flossing Day was established in 2000 but floss itself has been around since the late 1890s. Johnson and Johnson first patented dental floss, which was then made of thin silk threads, in 1898. In the mid-1900s, nylon became the more commonly used material. 

Flossing removes bits of food and plaque between teeth and around the gum line that your toothbrush can’t reach. This combats tooth decay and periodontal disease. Left untreated, such ailments can have serious consequences, including tooth loss.

How to Celebrate National Flossing Day

To mark National Flossing Day, renew your commitment to flossing—and make sure you’re doing it correctly. Start with 18 inches of floss, holding a couple inches taut between your hands. Create a C-shape around the tooth, working the floss gently down to the gum line. Move on to a fresh section of floss for each tooth. 

If you find yourself lacking the motivation needed to use traditional floss for your teeth cleaning, consider handheld devices or water flossing. Some people find these tools easier and less tedious to use. Your dentist can advise you on products that suit your needs and make flossing feel like less of a chore. 

For advice on preventive dentistry techniques like flossing, residents of Elk Grove, CA, trust Laguna Bond Dental. As members of both the California Dental Association and the American Dental Association, these professionals are always up-to-date on the latest technologies available to improve their patient care. Get a full overview of their offering, from general teeth cleanings to cosmetic procedures, online. For an appointment, call (916) 686-8989.