Dentists most likely do know when a patient lies about flossing. Based on a survey that asked adult patients if they had lied about flossing, about 27% admitted to lying. What would some of them rather do than floss their teeth? Over a third of the patients would rather do unpleasant chores every day, 14 percent preferred cleaning the toilet, nine percent thought sitting in a traffic jam was better, and seven percent would rather ride on a plane with crying children.
Who knew that pulling a piece of floss between your teeth could be so challenging?
Lies About Flossing Didn’t Surprise Dentists
According to the president of the American Academy of Periodontology (reference: National Public Radio), lies about flossing were not surprising to dentists. In fact, the president thought the percentage of lying patients would’ve been higher.
What are the statistics on dental flossing?
Another survey done by the dentists association showed that:
- Four in 10 Americans floss every day
- One fifth of Americans never floss
Why did people say they didn’t like to floss?
- It took so long to do
- It made their gums bleed
- It was slimy
- It released food particles that flew onto the mirror
- They didn’t notice that they felt better nor did they see any difference afterward
The best way to overcome resistance is often educating patients about why flossing is so important.
What Can Happen If You Don’t Floss?
Plaque builds up and it can gather below your gum line and turn into tartar, which is hardened plaque. It causes inflammation and leads to gum disease. Gum disease can result in your gums pulling back from the tooth (receding). It can also lead to tooth decay and tooth loss.
Flossing once a day and brushing your teeth twice a day helps prevent gum disease.
Once you learn how to floss the right way, even though there probably won’t be any instant gratification, at least you’ll know it is helping you avoid a future of aching gums and tooth loss. And, you won’t need to tell lies about flossing.
Do You Have Questions About Your Dental Care?
At Hutto Hippo Family Dental, our dentists can help you take good care of your teeth and gums.
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