One Tool for Better Gum Health | Dentist in Cape Girardeau

Dentist Cape Girardeau

63703 Dentist

Loose teeth, bad breath, and painful, bloody gums – these are among the signs and symptoms of periodontal, or gum, disease. Unfortunately, periodontal disease can also begin without any obvious symptoms. If left undiagnosed or untreated, you could be at risk for irreparable damage to your teeth and gums. The good news is that periodontal disease is preventable. In fact, one of the most effective tools for preventing the disease only takes a minute of your time each day.

Floss to the Rescue

Dental floss is an effective and easy to use tool that can be among your best defenses for preventing periodontal disease. Periodontal disease is caused by a buildup of plaque and bacteria. Even if your daily oral hygiene routine already includes a thorough brushing that lasts for two minutes, at least twice each day, you should be flossing daily as well. Dental floss is highly effective at cleaning areas where your toothbrush cannot reach. Small gaps and tight spaces between teeth catch food debris and sugars and acids from drinks all day long. Flossing helps to clean out these tough to reach spaces.

Facts Behind Flossing

According to a survey referenced by the American Dental Association, only 40% of Americans floss each day. The same study showed a clear link between regular intra-oral care and better oral health. Unfortunately, many people also lie about how frequently they clean between their teeth. A study from the American Academy of Periodontology found that 27% of adults lie to their dentist about their flossing habits.

Tips for Flossing Correctly

Our dentist in 63703 understands that it can be confusing to figure out the best way to use dental floss. Try cutting off about 18 inches of floss and wrapping most of it carefully around your middle finger. Use roughly one inch to clean between each pair of teeth. Using your thumb and index finger, carefully slide the floss between your teeth. Floss to your gum line, but be gentle. Avoid cutting your gums. Work your way through your 18 inches of floss by using a new, clean section between each pair of adjacent teeth.

It only takes about a minute to floss your teeth each day, but these minutes contribute to a lifetime of optimal oral health. Floss is among the most effective tools at your disposal to keep your gums clean and healthy. Get into the habit of flossing your teeth regularly – your gums will thank you.

For more information about gum health, or to schedule a visit to our dental office in Cape Girardeau, MO, please contact our team.

We’d love to connect with you.

Dentist Cape Girardeau

We look forward to meeting you. Please feel free to give us a call (573)206-9531 or text (573)282-7485 to schedule your first visit. You can also click on the 'Schedule a Visit' button below to make an appointment.

2143 Independence St, Suite 101
Cape Girardeau, MO 63703

Dental News in Cape Girardeau

Dentist Cape Girardeau

August, 2022

Tobacco & Your Teeth: The Risks of Chewing and Smoking | Cape ...

Chewing and smoking tobacco are known to cause severe health problems, particularly in the lungs. But the risks to your mouth and teeth can be

Read More >>

August, 2022

Are You Brushing Your Teeth Properly? | Dentist in 63703

Many people are surprised to learn that, for years, they have actually been brushing their teeth the wrong way. Brushing your teeth the wrong way

Read More >>

July, 2022

Gum Health and Alzheimer’s Disease | Cape Girardeau Dentist

Your gum health may have an impact on your cognitive function. One recent study shared by our dentist in 63703 found a correlation between gum

Read More >>