While most people know the importance of brushing their teeth daily, flossing often gets overlooked in many oral hygiene routines. Dr. Esha Persad, a prominent Seminole-based dentist, sheds light on why flossing is crucial for maintaining both oral health and overall well-being. As an expert in comprehensive dental care and a passionate advocate for community health education, Dr. Persad emphasizes the lasting benefits of flossing and provides insights on how to do it properly.
Meet Dr. Esha Persad
Dr. Esha Persad has an impressive dental career that spans continents. After earning her Bachelor’s degree at Oxford Dental College in India, she furthered her expertise with advanced training in dental surgery at the University of Colorado. This diverse education informs her holistic approach to dentistry.
In addition to her clinical work, Dr. Persad is dedicated to serving underserved communities. She actively participates in outreach programs, providing free dental services and educating the public on oral health. As part of the Monticciolo Family and Sedation Dentistry team, she focuses on creating a comfortable environment for her patients, utilizing the latest technology and patient care strategies. A key aspect of her message is the often-underestimated power of flossing.
Flossing Complements Brushing
Brushing your teeth is essential, but it only cleans the visible surfaces of your teeth. Dr. Persad explains, “Flossing takes care of the tight spaces between teeth where plaque buildup occurs and where toothbrush bristles simply can’t reach.”
She points out that each tooth has five surfaces, and neglecting to floss leaves two of those unaddressed. Without flossing, plaque can harden into tartar, leading to dental issues like cavities, gum inflammation, and even tooth loss. Dr. Persad emphasizes that flossing is a vital partner to brushing. Together, they ensure your teeth are thoroughly cleaned and help avoid long-term complications.
A Defense Against Gum Disease
Flossing is particularly important in preventing gum disease, which often develops without noticeable symptoms. Gum disease begins as gingivitis—a mild inflammation of the gums caused by bacterial buildup. If untreated, it can progress to periodontitis, a more severe condition that threatens the structural integrity of your teeth.
By reducing plaque and harmful bacteria, daily flossing can prevent gum disease from advancing. Dr. Persad also stresses the broader health implications of gum disease. Research has linked untreated gum disease to an increased risk of heart disease, diabetes, and other chronic conditions due to the inflammation it causes. “Flossing may seem simple, but it plays a significant role in maintaining your body’s overall health,” she explains.
Banishing Bad Breath
Flossing is also a powerful weapon against bad breath (halitosis). Food particles and bacteria trapped between teeth are often the primary culprits behind unpleasant odors. By flossing regularly, you can remove these sources of bad breath, leaving your mouth fresher.
Dr. Persad notes, “Sometimes, bad breath is blamed on the wrong factors, such as diet, when the real issue lies in poor cleaning practices.” Regular flossing is an easy and effective way to prevent uncomfortable social situations caused by bad breath.
Mastering Proper Flossing Techniques
For flossing to be effective, it must be done correctly. Dr. Persad recommends using about 18 inches of floss, ensuring there’s enough clean floss for each tooth. She advises gently sliding the floss between teeth in a back-and-forth motion to avoid damaging the gums. The floss should be curved into a “C” shape around each tooth, allowing for thorough cleaning of all surfaces.
It’s also important to use fresh floss for each tooth to avoid reintroducing debris into the mouth. For those who find traditional flossing difficult, Dr. Persad suggests alternatives like water flossers or pre-threaded floss picks, which are quicker and easier while still being effective.
Building a Routine
Dr. Persad recommends flossing at least once a day, ideally before bed. “At the end of the day, you want to remove everything your teeth have accumulated—whether it’s plaque, debris, or bacteria. Flossing before bed ensures your mouth stays as clean as possible while you sleep,” she says.
Combining this with brushing twice a day and regular dental check-ups creates a strong oral hygiene routine. Dr. Persad encourages patients to think of flossing as an investment in their long-term dental and overall health. By making flossing a habit, individuals can avoid more complex dental procedures down the road.
Connecting Oral and Overall Health
Dr. Persad emphasizes that flossing is not just about clean teeth but about maintaining overall health. Conditions like cardiovascular disease and diabetes have been linked to poor oral health due to the body’s inflammatory response to bacteria in the gums. By flossing regularly, you may help reduce inflammation in the body, leading to better health overall.
“Flossing takes just a few minutes, yet the health benefits it brings can last a lifetime,” Dr. Persad concludes.
Empowering Patients Through Education
Dr. Persad’s approach to dentistry is focused on empowering her patients through education. Whether in a clinical visit or during community outreach, she strives to make dental care approachable and sustainable. “Patients sometimes feel that maintaining oral health is difficult or overwhelming, but our goal is to make it approachable,” she says. By emphasizing the importance of flossing and other simple daily habits, Dr. Persad helps her patients create routines that promote healthier smiles and overall well-being.
A Simple Habit with a Powerful Impact
Flossing may not always be the most talked-about aspect of dental care, but its impact is undeniable. From preventing gum disease and reducing the risk of systemic health issues to improving breath and saving money on dental procedures, flossing is a small habit that packs a big punch.
Dr. Persad reminds us that staying healthy doesn’t always require grand gestures. Sometimes, real impact lies in the simplest of daily choices—choices like taking a few minutes to floss.
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