Don’t Have Time to Floss? Solutions to Common Excuses for Not Flossing

Do you wish you flossed more but don’t think you have time? Or do you have another excuse entirely? At California Dental Group we’ve heard them all and we understand that it can be a struggle for people. That’s why we’ve compiled these simple solutions to the most common excuses not to floss.

Excuse: Food doesn’t ever get stuck in my teeth

One of the biggest myths about flossing is that the only reason to do it is to remove food from between your teeth. The truth is that the real main purpose is getting rid of plaque. Flossing on a daily basis can prevent both gum disease and teeth loss. While it can’t prevent plaque altogether – after all, everybody gets it – plaque can be removed either by flossing or deep cleaning by your dentist.

Excuse: I don’t have time to floss

Flossing is faster than you think. At California Dental Group we strongly recommend you floss at least once daily but two times is better. Make it a part of your routine by doing it at a specific time. Our recommendation is both in the morning and at night. Store your floss right next to your toothbrush so you don’t have to forget.

Or store your floss somewhere else entirely, like your car or office. Remember that you don’t have to floss in front of a mirror. Take a few minutes when you’re stuck in traffic, use it at work after lunch, or at whatever time works for you.

Excuse: Flossing is painful

If your gums are healthy then it shouldn’t hurt to floss. If it does, that’s a pretty good sign that you have either gum disease or gingivitis. Pain and / or bleeding may seem like an excuse not to floss but it’s actually the opposite. If you start brushing and flossing daily, you should see an end to the pain and blood within two weeks. If you don’t, call California Dental Group and set up your dental exam.

Excuse: I can’t floss because my teeth are too close together

Have you tried different types of floss? Waxed or glide floss often offer a better fit and easier experience. If your gums are recessed, if you have gaps between your teeth, or if you’re currently wearing braces, then you may consider a threader or loop that offers an easier entry point. If your floss shreds when you use it, then it’s possible you have either a cavity or some kind of issue with previous dental work, like a filling that’s come loose or a crown that’s broken.

Do you need help flossing? Set up your appointment with California Dental Group and let us show you how. It may seem like a challenge to floss daily but once you add it to your routine, you won’t think twice about it. If you are serious about improving the health of your gums and teeth then flossing should be your first move.