Why You Should Not Skip Flossing

Recently, the benefits of flossing have been questioned in the press. This has caused the dental associations in Australia and US to be concerned that after reading such negative publicity some individuals will dispense with flossing altogether.

Despite the decision of the US health department to remove daily flossing from the dental recommendation list, the leading dental associations still urge people to continue flossing.

Australian Dental Associations Remain Pro-Dental Floss

Primary dental associations such as the Australian Dental Association, the Australian Society of Periodontology and the Australian and New Zealand Academy of Periodontists issued a joint statement last August. The joint statement strongly argues in favour of the essential role of flossing in maintaining good oral health.

“The Australian Dental Association, Australian and New Zealand Academy of Periodontists and the Australian Society of Periodontology strongly recommend interdental cleaning (such as flossing) as integral part of good oral health.”

“Flossing disrupts and eliminates food debris and plaque in between teeth where a toothbrush can’t reach.”

“When plaque is allowed to accumulate on teeth and along the gum line, tooth decay and gum disease can develop.”

 “The limited amount of scientific evidence that surrounds flossing is not a reflection of its clinical effectiveness.”

“Patients must continue to include flossing as part of their daily oral hygiene regimen, along with brushing and dental visits.”

“It’s crucial to understand that the effectiveness of oral hygiene practices is moderated by fluoride usage, diet and genetic factors.”

Make Flossing A Routine

Flossing, in combination with brushing, is an essential part of your oral care routine. You only need to floss for at least two minutes, once a day, and you can choose if you want to do it in the morning or night, or even after lunch or dinner.

Adults are not the only ones who need to perform interdental cleaning. Kids must floss, too! Up to age 10 they should start flossing as soon as they have two teeth that make contact. It’s best if parents do the flossing, as younger children don’t have the manual dexterity (the ability to make coordinated hand and finger movements) that is required to floss effectively.

While dental associations agree that there should be more research about the long-term benefits of flossing, this should not stop anyone from continuing the practices that have been also established by your dentist for your overall oral health wellness. The practices include flossing.

Comprehensive Oral Hygiene Education at Bondi Dental

Here at Bondi Dental, we believe that without flossing your dental care routine is less efficient. Like brushing and dental visits, flossing has its own important role in keeping your teeth and gums in a healthy state. To learn more about the benefits of flossing, your Bondi dentist at Bondi Dental encourages you to join our Active Maintenance Dental Program, where we help you and your family improve your oral hygiene practices in the most detailed and comprehensive way.

We are conveniently located in the Sydney area, at Bondi Beach in the city of Bondi. We offer high quality dental services to the local Bondi community and surrounding areas. Bondi Dental provides free parking facilities at the rear of the building.

Claim your FREE Dental Consultation. We also provide services under the Bulk Bill Child Benefit Schedule (up to $1,000 over a two-year period for children ages 2 to 17).

Bondi Dental is a group of professionals who have combined experience of over 60 years in all aspects of dentistry.

Call your Bondi dentist on (02) 9365 7187 or book your appointment online.

Visit us at 134 Curlewis St in Bondi Beach.