Which Is More Important – Flossing Or Brushing?

When was the last time the family dentist listed recommended us to start taking better care of our mouth and teeth? Dentists across the globe talk about brushing twice every day and also flossing once a day. But, are doing both necessary? Can brushing be done and flossing skipped and vice versa?

There are many popular and well-ranked dental colleges in India like Mansarovar Dental. These colleges have been instrumental in generating thousands of experienced dentists every year. These individuals are taught the best ways of treating dental issues and taking care of teeth.

Some of the basic oral tips dental students learn at their colleges regarding brushing and flossing can be easily replicated at home. Mentioned below is a discussion on choosing between brushing and flossing and how to do both, correctly.

Brushing or Flossing

If one were to pick between brushing or flossing, there is, honestly, no choice. Both brushing and flossing are important for optimum oral health care. One must do both every day without fail. Brushing should be done twice daily, once in the morning and once in the evening. Flossing, on the other hand, must be done at least once a day.

Both brushing and flossing are done to remove stuck food particles and plaque from the surface of the teeth. Flossing goes in between the teeth to remove plaque. While the toothbrush will cover just the surface of the teeth, with flossing the hard-to-reach spots can be reached.

By definition and on a technicality, flossing seems to be more important as it can help in preventing periodontal diseases and break down harmful bacteria from in between the teeth. However, that does not mean one should be skipping out on brushing their teeth together. What is essential, is to do both and concentrate on getting the technique right for both brushing and flossing.

Importance Of Brushing and Flossing

As mentioned above, everyone should know to properly brush and floss to get the maximum benefits. Before discussing that, let us understand, in detail, why must one pay attention to their oral health. Save time and money by visiting the nearest dental college and hospital and read the benefits of brushing and flossing.

• Remove plaque and bacteria: Plaque is a sticky layer that forms on the surface of the teeth due to the build-up of bacteria. If left as is, plaque can lead to tooth loss, tooth pain, receding gum lines, bad breath and more. Brushing and flossing, if done right, remove both bacteria thereby preventing plaque.
• Better gums: People who brush and floss regularly have visibly healthier gums. Flossing in particular removes in between the teeth and prevents a lot of gum diseases from occurring.
• Prevent diseases: Taking a few minutes in one day to dedicate to brushing and flossing will prevent many diseases. From gum bleeding to potentially losing teeth. Both simple oral routines will stop bacteria from developing and thereby fend off any plaque. This will also help save a lot of money in time in treating said disease.
• Positive and confident smile: No one has perfect teeth but when taken care of healthy teeth can be stain free with bright gums. People are more confident about themselves and there is a boost of confidence. There is a sense of control and the resulting positive mindset carries over to other tasks in the day.
• Fresh breath: The last but most obvious benefit is having fresh minty breath to start or end the day. Brushing and flossing can be relaxing that help prepare one for the rest of the day. The fresh breath will also help in leaving a lasting impression on anyone the individual meets.

How To Brush Properly?

As has been mentioned above, there is a way to brush properly. Brushing just for the sake of it will do more harm than good. For best results, follow the following tips to properly brush teeth.

• Go slow: Take the time when brushing teeth. Rushing over it will leave bleeding gums and not clean up as effectively as it should. Dentists recommend taking two minutes in total, thirty seconds for each side when brushing.
• Brush placement: Do not hold the brush at a 90-degree angle to the teeth. Instead, hold the brush more at a 45-degree angle for best results. This is the ideal angle to remove any debris and plaque.
• Brush movement: Move the brush slowly back and forth. Go over each tooth from the front and the back. Use gentle pressure and make sure not to miss out on the back teeth.
• Use the right toothbrush: Using just any toothbrush is not the right move. Dentists recommend using a soft-bristled toothbrush. There are also electric toothbrushes that work excellently in removing food particles and bacteria.
• The right toothpaste: Not just the toothbrush but choosing the right toothpaste matters too. There are a number of toothpastes in the market that one can choose depending on the issue they are facing, sensitivity or teeth whitening. For best results, consult a dentist at a BDS college in Bhopal for recommendations.
• Mouthwash: Finish up with a good mouthwash. Many types of mouthwashes have alcohol in them which is harmful to the teeth. Opt for one that is safe ingredient wise and also dentist recommended. Be sure to wait for thirty minutes after using mouthwash to eat or drink anything.

How To Floss Properly?

Since the conversation is about both brushing and flossing, one must also know how to floss. Flossing has many benefits and if done correctly, brings about more benefits than mere brushing. Following are some tips to start flossing correctly.

• Choose the right floss: Like with the toothbrush and toothpaste, there are many options for floss as well. One can choose from waxed, un-waxed, PTFE floss, water pick and dental tape depending on their liking.
• Placing the floss: To start, place the floss in a c-shape around the tooth. This will allow for more surface area to be covered and the floss will be able to reach deep between each tooth.
• Moving the floss: Go in a to and fro motion once the floss has been placed. Also, go up and down between each tooth. This will help remove plaque from the inside and outside surfaces of the teeth. Use a new section of floss when switching sections of teeth.

Brushing and flossing do more than help with fresh breath. They keep the teeth healthy and also help keep the gums from developing any diseases. Dental diseases when ignored often can lead to major diseases like diabetes and heart disease. To save time, money, and stress from a doctor’s visit in the near future, start incorporating brushing and flossing in the daily oral routine today using the tips mentioned above.