Dental Debate: Should You Floss Your Teeth?

In the last couple of weeks, there’s been a lot of debate and controversy surrounding flossing and its benefits. In short, numerous experts have come out to say flossing could be a waste of time, as it’s not proven to promote oral health in the long run. Of course, plenty of experts also disagree with the statement, arguing it is indeed worthwhile to floss your teeth. With such varying stances from dentists and experts alike, it’s difficult to say flossing is or isn’t beneficial. So, should you floss your teeth?

At Trapnell Orthodontics in Utah County, we’re well aware of the importance of flossing, despite the recent debate. When it comes down to it, flossing removes harmful plaque and food debris from your teeth, which is crucial when braces are a factor. Whether you have traditional braces or use Invisalign, we’ll always recommend flossing throughout treatment. Considering the recent controversy, however, we thought it was best to take a closer look at the flossing debate. Let’s jump right in.

To Floss or Not to Floss?

As mentioned, there’s been of a lot of debate regarding flossing over the past few weeks. Multiple dentists and experts came forward to state no scientific evidence can support the effectiveness of flossing. Simply put, experts believe flossing actually doesn’t have an effect on your oral health. In contrast, plenty of dentists still believe there’s a point to flossing, as it removes plaque and food debris from the gaps in between that would otherwise go untouched by a toothbrush. There’s really no denying that either, as you can see the plaque removed when flossing.

Those who still see the point in flossing claim the lack of scientific evidence means nothing, as there’s no evidence to prove flossing is worthless. Even if it’s proven that flossing doesn’t save your from cavities, there’s still a point to flossing. Gum disease, caused by bacteria-ridden plaque, can be a serious issue and has even been linked to overall health issues like heart disease. Removing the disease-causing plaque is essential to avoid gum disease, and you can only reach crucial areas with dental floss. So, in our opinion, flossing is important, so long as you do it correctly.

The Right Way to Floss Your Teeth

Among the experts who do see a point in flossing, their main defense states flossing is effective when done properly. To make flossing worthwhile, you need to hook the floss around each side of the tooth, making a “C” shape and pulling up to remove the plaque. Though this is quite simple, those with braces may still have a difficult time flossing with the correct technique.

As discussed in a previous blog, patients with braces can use a few different tools to improve their flossing efforts. Proxabrushes and water flossers are great alternatives to dental floss while braces are a factor. This way, patients can still prevent gum disease when using dental floss is too difficult with braces. So to answer the question, should you floss your teeth, the answer is yes!

Floss Your Teeth and Visit Trapnell Today

Despite the recent controversy, we still believe flossing is indeed worthwhile. When done properly, flossing your teeth removes plaque and otherwise harmful food debris, which is key to avoiding tooth decay and gum disease, especially if you have braces.

If you don’t have braces, but would love a straighter smile, call Trapnell Orthodontics today! We serve patients of Payson, Provo, Spanish Fork, Springville, and nearby areas. You can contact us here to schedule your first appointment.