Brite Smiles Educates the Public on Flossing

Apple Valley, MN – Brite Smiles Dental Care (http://www.britesmilesdentalcare.com), in Apple Valley shares some of the ins and outs of flossing and how it fits into your dental routine.

Throughout the day, bacteria builds up on your teeth in a sticky film called plaque. Brushing your teeth will remove the plaque. If it’s left on your teeth undisturbed it will harden into tartar, which can only be removed with special tools by a dental professional. Toothbrush bristles can’t always reach into every tiny crevice and that’s where flossing comes in.

Why We Floss:
Flossing removes the food particles and sticky bacteria called plaque from between your teeth and underneath gums that brushing can’t reach. Flossing daily prevents plaque from building up under the gums and can prevent puffy, bleeding and irritated gums. Flossing promotes fresher breath, keeps your gums healthy and can help prevent cavities, gingivitis and even heart disease.

How Flossing Works:
Flossing is important, but so is the technique. When flossing you need to gently slide the floss between the teeth, wrap it around both the back and front of each tooth, gently move the floss down under the gum tissue and move it up and down a few times on each side of the tooth. Your hygienist can review correct flossing technique if you have any questions. They can also show you different flossing aids if you find traditional flossing difficult.

When Should You Floss?
Experts say it doesn’t really matter when you floss. Some people prefer to floss before they brush, some after they brush. Any time of the day that you can fit flossing into your routine is better than not flossing at all.

Despite the current controversy about flossing versus not flossing, Brite Smiles Dental Care hygienists strongly recommend flossing. “If you have any questions or need any help on the proper technique – please give us a call or ask your hygienist at your next appointment.”

David A., a recent patient stated “Dr. Simmons is kind and compassionate and takes the time to answer all of my concerns.”

And from Ann R.: “Rachel and Dr. Edstrom are the best. Totally comfortable, trust them with any dental procedure or emergency.”

Dr. Dennis Simmons graduated from the University of Minnesota School of Dentistry in 1976, receiving the Class Honor in prosthetics – dentures partial and full. Since then he has participated in over 3000 hours of continuing education courses, focusing primarily on cosmetic and reconstructive dentistry, dental implants and implant-supported restorations, orthodontics, extractions, crown/bridge, root canals, bite and TMJ disorders and sleep apnea. For his studies, he has been honored with the status of “Diplomate” from the International Congress of Oral Implantology and the International Osseous (bone) Integration Society. For more information on orthodontics services and options from Brite Smiles Dental Care, visit http://britesmilesdentalcare.com, or call 952-891-8484.