Dentists from all across the world have been recommending flossing teeth at least once a day for good oral hygiene. If the teeth are not flossed properly, then the food particles and bacteria may remain trapped between our teeth. It’s a simple step that not only helps in preventing bad breath but also avoiding cavities and gum disease.

Despite this, only 16 percent of the adults floss their teeth, as per the survey by the American Dental Association (ADA). This percentage is much worse in the Indian context. Most people are not aware of the importance of oral hygiene and flossing.

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“In India, the overall awareness regarding oral health is very limited. Majority of the population is not even aware of what flossing is and how it can prevent the build-up of plaque which results in oral diseases such as gingivitis and dental carries,” explains Dr Mohendar Narula, Founder and Chairman, MyDentalPlan Healthcare Pvt. Ltd

According to a new study carried by NYU Rory Meyers College of Nursing, there is another compelling reason for people to make flossing a part of their daily routine.

The report highlights how flossing may even help against cognitive decline. It goes on to note that adults with more tooth loss had 1.48 times higher risk of cognitive impairment and 1.28 times higher risk of dementia than the others. This was the case even when other factors were controlled.

It is not just the loss of teeth that puts them at higher risk but not getting a denture to replace them is another important factor as per this survey. It notes that adults who experienced tooth loss were more likely to have cognitive decline if they did not have dentures.

In addition to this, people are not aware of the fact that our dental health affects our brain cells.

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Commenting on this, Dr Narula says, “When we floss, we reduce the inflammation and potential infection in our mouth, keeping the infection from spreading to our brain cells. Healthy gums lead to avoiding the loss of brain cells and even memory loss. It only takes a minute a day and can help in keeping the gums, mind and memory healthy.”

That’s why  flossing is important a part of the daily routine but also understand the right way to do so.

It has also been found that many people who suffer from sensitive or bleeding gums are tempted to avoid flossing for fear of making their bleeding gums worse. However, as per experts, flossing can help in improving the health of their gums and thereby helping to prevent them from bleeding.

Considering all the benefits that flossing has to offer, it is important to understand the right way to floss teeth and to make it a part of the daily routine.