Study: Floss 2-3 Mins Daily & Cut Plaque, Gingivitis by Up to 86%

Dental plaque isn’t just a harmless film on your teeth; it’s a microbial battleground. When it’s left unchecked, it escalates into tartar, irritates your gums, and initiates the onset of gingivitis, which is the gateway to more severe gum diseases like periodontitis. While brushing is essential, there are crevices it misses. Enter: Flossing.

The Eye-Opening Findings

A recent study from the Journal of Dental Hygiene offers profound insights into dental care. While brushing is pivotal, the addition of flossing plays a significant role in maintaining optimal dental health. Here are the compelling findings:

Participants who integrated flossing into their daily routine saw remarkable results. The study highlighted that those who committed just 2-3 minutes to flossing daily, in conjunction with their brushing routine, experienced a substantial reduction in plaque and gingivitis.
How the study was set up:
- NC (Control Group): This group did not incorporate flossing into their dental routine. They observed plaque reductions between 29.9% and 49.9%, and gingivitis reductions ranged from 33.4% to 53.4%.
- 4EO Group: This group brushed their teeth twice daily, flossed once, and used an electric toothbrush. They reported plaque reductions of 59.0% and 76.4% and gingivitis reductions of 58.4% and 78.5% respectively.
- FBH Group: Participants in this group brushed their teeth twice daily, flossed once, and opted for a manual toothbrush. Their results? A plaque reduction of 67.8% and 85.6% and a decline in gingivitis by 68.9% and 86.0%.
- FUS Group: This group combined the use of an ultrasonic toothbrush with brushing twice daily and flossing once. Their outcomes showed a plaque reduction of 62.8% and 78.0% and a decrease in gingivitis by 63.8% and 78.3%.

At the conclusion of the 12-week study, all three flossing groups exhibited significant health strides when compared to the control group, with the FBH group (those using a manual toothbrush and flossing) leading in both plaque and gingivitis reduction.

In summary, while brushing is foundational for dental health, the inclusion of flossing can amplify the benefits. The tools used, be it a manual or electric toothbrush, also contribute to the overall outcome. It’s a holistic approach to dental health, with each element playing a pivotal role.

How to Properly Floss?

Proper flossing isn’t just yanking a string between teeth. Here’s how you ace it:

Secure 18 inches of floss, anchoring its ends around your middle fingers.
Introduce the floss gently between teeth, using a rhythmic sawing pattern.
As you reach the gum, shape the floss into a C-curve, delicately sweeping below the gum line.
Use gentle to-and-fro motions to dislodge trapped debris.
Go tooth by tooth, ensuring both front and back are covered.

Make Flossing a Habit

While it might seem tedious initially, cultivating a flossing habit is pure gold for your dental health. Here are some pro tips:

Always keep floss within arm’s reach: in your bag, car, or work desk.
Floss as you binge your favorite show or groove to a tune.
A 2-3 minute timer can be your flossing coach.
Not a floss fan? Water flossers or interdental brushes are worthy alternatives.

Final Thoughts

When it comes to defending against dental villains like plaque and gingivitis, flossing is your unsung hero. If you’ve been sidelining it, now’s the time to weave it into your daily routine.

Alora Dental Clinic: Passionate about empowering you with elite dental care. We champion the flossing cause and urge our patients to make it second nature. Queries about flossing or want to book an appointment? We’re here for you.

Meet Your Dentist...

Step into Alora Dental Clinic and let us introduce you to our passionate and dedicated dentist, Dr. Angelica Eden Astillero. She’s the type of person who lights up a room with her warm and approachable demeanor. And that’s just the start of what makes her an exceptional dentist.

Dr. Astillero graduated from the University of the East, where she developed a love for dentistry and helping others. Her commitment to continuing education and the latest dental techniques allows her to provide top-notch care to patients of all ages. But what truly sets her apart is her ability to connect with her patients and put them at ease.