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Do you floss every day?

If not, you’re far from alone. Most people hate flossing—and will try to avoid it at all costs. According to a 2014 survey, just 4 in 10 American adults floss their teeth daily—and 20% never floss at all! While it’s tempting to accept the truth and say you floss more than you do when you’re sitting in the dentist chair, don’t try to deny it… your dentist can tell! Aside from avoiding an embarrassing moment at the dentist’s office, however, there are some other fantastic benefits to flossing.

Here are some benefits from flossing!

1. Reduces your risk of gum disease – There are many health problems associated with gum disease if left untreated: loose or missing teeth, bleeding, inflamed gums, bone loss, and other oral health problems. Bacteria that enters the bloodstream causes other problems, and has even been linked to heart disease, diabetes, and Alzheimer’s. Flossing can help prevent the plaque buildup that irritates the gums and leads to gum disease over time. Combined with twice daily brushing and regular professional cleanings, flossing is a great way to help prevent gum disease.
2. Plaque removal – Brushing removes the plaque from the surface of the teeth, but it can’t reach the plaque hidden in the nooks and crannies between the teeth. Over time, that plaque hardens and turns into tartar, which can cause tooth decay, cavities, and gum inflammation.
3. Fresher breath – Plaque holds bacteria, which doesn’t do your breath any favors. Flossing removes more plaque from your mouth than brushing alone, which can help keep your mouth fresher and cleaner.
4. Fever cavities – Most people don’t get through life without a few cavities, but flossing is a great tool for making them less likely. Plaque between the teeth can cause cavities, since the toothbrush can’t reach those small spaces… floss can!
5. Reduced risk for diabetes and heart disease – When you think about flossing like this, it becomes a no-brainer. While flossing doesn’t directly prevent these serious diseases, its role in gum health can become important for reducing risks of heart disease and diabetes. Periodontal (gum) disease has been linked to both conditions, due to inflammation in the gums, so pick up your floss and keep those gums healthy!

Now get to flossing!

It’s easy to know when to replace worn out shoes or faded clothes. But how often should you change your toothbrush? It all depends on your usage, health and preferences. Before you brush again, ask yourself whether it is time for a new toothbrush. Studies show that after three months of normal wear and tear, toothbrushes are much less effective at removing plaque from teeth and gums compared to new ones. The bristles break down and loose their effectiveness in getting to all those tricky corners around your teeth.

When to Get a New Toothbrush

Replace toothbrushes every 3 to 4 months. Consider getting a new toothbrush sooner if you have been sick, especially if the toothbrush is stored close to other toothbrushes. That’s because germs can hide in toothbrush bristles and lead to reinfection. When in doubt, look at the bristles. If they are frayed, they won’t clean teeth as thoroughly. Because children often brush more rigorously than adults, they may need their toothbrushes replaced more often.

Types of Toothbrushes

There are two styles of toothbrushes to consider: manual and electric. Choose what feels comfortable and makes you want to brush your teeth regularly. A manual toothbrush is portable and ready to use every time you need it. It makes no noise, and you will have complete control over the pressure it puts on your teeth and gums. An electric toothbrush requires charging and is a bit more cumbersome to take along when traveling. However, the rotating movement of the bristles makes it easier to clean between teeth and at the gum line. Many electric toothbrushes have built-in sensors to make sure you brush long enough and don’t press too hard.

Maintaining Your Toothbrush

No matter which type of toothbrush you use, keep it clean. The American Dental Association recommends rinsing the toothbrush under tap water after you brush to wash away lingering toothpaste and saliva. Then, store the toothbrush in a vertical position, with the bristles positioned so they can air dry.

Storing a toothbrush in a closed container can cause bacteria to build up, so it’s best to let the bristles of the toothbrush fully dry between each usage. If you’re traveling, consider using disposable toothbrushes during the trip.

A good way to remember the 3 month rule is by months! Check out the picture below for reference! 

What better way to start the summer with a school supply drive.

I know some of us don’t want to think about school yet or school supplies but it’s for a good cause!

Join us in supporting our Kannapolis Police Department and Kannapolis City Schools school supply drive! We are accepting the following items now until August 1st.

Appreciated items: Pens – Pencils – Colored Pencils – Glue Sticks – Binders – Pocket Folders – Paper – Backpacks – Lunch Bags – Notebooks – Pencil Cases  Crayons – Tissues & Hand Sanitizer – Highlighters – Scissors – Water Bottles

Please drop your items off at our office anytime Monday-Thursday 8-4:30pm. (1408 South Main Street Kannapolis, NC 28027)