Top Excuses for Not Flossing

The avoidance of flossing is probably the most popular activity among adults and children of all ages that we see here at Newberg Family Dental. Dentist in Newberg Dr. Jennifer McLeod and her team see patients every day who have a variety of excuses when it comes to not flossing.

Why Do We Care About Flossing?

Even though it’s often an afterthought, flossing comprises the other half of an excellent at home dental care routine. Even if you brush thoroughly, reaching all surfaces and grooves of your teeth in the process, only about 50% of plaque is being removed each time.

Where is the other 50% of the plaque in your mouth? It’s in between your teeth in spaces that your toothbrush bristles cannot possibly reach. That’s a lot of plaque building up over time, contributing to tooth decay and the development of gum disease!

Excuse #1 – I Don’t Know How to Floss

Newberg dentist Dr. Jennifer McLeod and her staff at Newberg Family Dental welcome this excuse more than any other. Why? Because they are excited to teach you the best and most efficient ways to floss your teeth!

If you’re not confident about your flossing technique or you want to cut down the time spent flossing, let one of us know and we’ll review helpful flossing tips for a bright and healthy smile.

Excuse #2 – I Don’t Have Time to Floss

There are many tasks that need to be completed during the day, and flossing seems to be one that takes a back seat. But think about all of the different grooming activities done in front of the bathroom mirror each morning or evening – make up application, brushing and styling hair, and brushing teeth as a few options – and this excuse doesn’t seem to hold much water.

The simple fact is that if you have time to sit and watch TV or drive your car, then you have time to floss. Invest in several bags of floss picks or containers of dental floss and put them in strategic places, such as:

• your nightstand
• a pocket or purse
• in the car (try the cup holder)
• on the bathroom counter
• by your favorite spot on the couch
• in the kitchen window

and wherever else you might see this floss often. Having the dental floss within easy reach is a a simple way to remind and motivate you to floss regularly!

Excuse #3 – My Gums Bleed When I Floss

If your gums bleed when you floss your teeth, Dr. McLeod and her team at Newberg Family Dental want to know about it. This is a sign of developing gum disease, which can be countered by actually flossing more instead of less. If left untreated, this early sign of gum disease can develop into a more painful and serious form called periodontitis.

At Newberg Family Dental, we are here to help you learn how to practice flossing and maintain excellent dental hygiene habits at home. Contact Newberg Family Dental here or call (503) 278-4281 to schedule your appointment!