Let’s Celebrate National Flossing Day!
Now that November has arrived, many Americans are thinking about celebrating Thanksgiving with their family and friends. They are planning the menu or perhaps finalizing travel arrangements if the family lives far away. We all know about the day after Thanksgiving, Black Friday, famous for its big holiday sales and deals. But, did you know there is another important day that is celebrated the day after Thanksgiving? It is National Flossing Day — a day dedicated to the importance of flossing your teeth and raising awareness about proper oral hygiene.
Why Should We Floss?
National Flossing Day was originally established in 2000 to raise awareness and educate patients about the importance of flossing for maintaining healthy teeth and gums. When patients visit our office for their hygiene examination and cleaning, there are clear signs that reveal who flosses and who does not. The American Dental Association recommends patients floss a minimum of once a day. Flossing daily does more than you might think to help keep your oral health on track:
Flossing Keeps Bad Breath at Bay
After eating, food remains trapped between the cracks and crevices of your teeth. A toothbrush cannot reach between teeth, so food stays there until it is removed by dental floss. The longer the food remains, the greater chance you have of developing bad breath.
Flossing Helps Prevent Tooth Decay
Food that remains between teeth is a breeding ground for bacteria and, eventually, plaque. The longer it stays there, the greater your chance of developing tooth decay.
Flossing Fights Gum Disease
Daily flossing helps promote healthy gums. Plaque buildup along the gum line allows gum disease to develop.
Flossing daily assists with numerous aspects of your oral health. It is also extremely important to visit our office every six months for a cleaning. Our team is able to remove any lingering plaque that you might miss when brushing and flossing.
If you have any questions about how to floss or want to learn about products that we recommend, please contact us at our location in Terre Haute, IN. We hope you have a fabulous time flossing away, and we look forward to your next appointment.
