Do I really need to floss?

• In recent years, there has been some short term research that has been done that questions the efficacy of flossing.
• Initially, when bacteria attaches to the tooth, it creates a thin film called plaque. Plaque can easily be removed with a toothbrush or floss. 
• Floss is designed to remove plaques in small areas were the 
• As time goes in, bacteria tries to hide from our immune system by releasing chemicals that turn itself into calculus. Calculus cannot be removed from the gum with toothbrush or floss
• Gum disease is a chronic disease where the surrounding tissue slowly gets destroyed.  
• You will rarely see patients in their teens and twenties with severe bone loss despite poor oral hygiene because it takes a long time.
• Short term studies have shown little benefits but further studies need to be done over many years in order to understand flossing.
• Clinically, dentists see the damage poor hygiene does to teeth and surrounding tissue
• It is important to remove all plaques daily in order to prevent formation of calculus

What are the early signs of dental issues I should pay attention to?

• There are both acute and chronic signs that affect the body. Just because you are not feeling anything, it does not mean that your teeth are healthy.  It is important to visit your dentist twice a year for a check up.  
• But these are some of the signs you should come to the office
  
  • Problem opening and closing jaw
  • Toothache
  • Bleeding gum
  • Excessively bad breath
  • Dry mouth
  • Loose or shifting teeth
  • Gum issues