St Piran Dental

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WHAT’S FLOSSUARY ALL ABOUT?

During the month of ‘Flossuary’ (February), we are encouraging everyone to try cleaning in between their teeth once a day for 28 consecutive days.

We believe that after 28 days you will feel and see a difference in your gum health.

When it comes to home oral health habits, many people regard flossing as an optional addition to twice daily brushing. While it is an addition to brushing, we recommend you do both.

Here are five reasons why you should backup your daily brushing routine with flossing.

1. HELPS PREVENT TOOTH LOSS

  1. Gums become inflamed (gingivitis).
  2. Gums can detach from the tooth and small pockets develop that allow bacteria to build up.
  3. The bone that forms the tooth socket recedes and teeth can become loose, leading to tooth loss (periodontitis).

Plaque collects between the teeth where toothbrushes can’t reach. If it is not cleaned away, the millions of bacteria in plaque can cause the gum to become inflamed (gingivitis). Sometimes you notice bleeding when your gums are inflamed, often when you brush. In some people, the inflammation continues and begins to destroy the bone that holds the teeth in.

Deep pockets develop around the teeth. These pockets collect more plaque and the process continues (periodontitis). If left, teeth may become loose and/or require extraction.

2. REDUCES YOUR RISK OF HEART DISEASE AND STROKE

Research has shown that where periodontal disease is present, bacteria can enter the bloodstream and cause changes in blood vessels in other parts of the body. This leads to increased risk of heart disease and stroke.
Research is ongoing but links have also been made between periodontal disease and Alzheimer’s, rheumatoid arthritis and chronic kidney disease.

3. REDUCES RISK OF DIABETES

The presence of gum disease raises blood glucose levels which increases the risk of developing diabetes. This also means that already diagnosed diabetics with periodontitis can find it harder to control their blood sugars. This increases their risk of complications in the heart and kidneys. Diabetics are also more likely to develop periodontitis, so these two diseases exacerbate each other.

4. PREVENTS TARTAR BUILD-UP

It doesn’t take long for plaque to accumulate on your teeth. When plaque is left unremoved, it can harden into tartar. Daily flossing will help to remove plaque from between your teeth and prevent tartar formation at the gum line.

5. PREVENTS BAD BREATH

Food debris trapped in between teeth and in the gum line may contain bacteria that cause an unpleasant odour. Daily flossing can help to remove the smelly odour from your mouth, while keeping your breath fresh and teeth free from unsightly food particles.

EXTENDED HOURS NOW IN PLACE FOR HYGIENE APPOINTMENTS

We are keen to offer extended hours for those seeking dental hygiene appointments so have introduced appointments 5 days a week for greater flexibility to our patients.

Patients now have direct access to dental hygiene services. “Direct access” means that patient’s don’t have to see a dentist first.

Our teams work closely, nevertheless. If the therapist spots something of concern that the dentist should check, you will be advised accordingly.

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