So this year the flossing recommendation was removed from the guidelines.
Advertisement
Don’t toss your floss yet.
There is little proof that using dental floss every day prevents gum disease and cavities, the United States federal government has admitted. If that were the case, we’d have great studies.
If it’s any consolation, there is some evidence that flossing does reduce bloody gums and gum inflammation known as gingivitis. I’m living proof, they just should have studied me! Numerous case studies that “proved” flossing helped prevent gum disease and plaque build-up were conducted on too few people and lasted only weeks-far too short a time to accurately gauge whether the practice makes a difference. On a more philosophical note, Donn also reminded us how important it is to question the truths that institutions and society have pounded into our skulls.
It’s a recommendation that started in 1979 by the federal government. In the most current copy of the Dietary Guidelines for Americans, flossing was omitted, according to the Associated Press. A video on its website proclaims that flossing “helps prevent gum disease”.
The ADA released a statement maintaining that “interdental cleaners” (their fancy term for floss) are “an essential part of taking care of your teeth and gums”. One interesting note is that the American Dental Association partners with floss companies via a Seal of Acceptance program that charges floss makers $14,500 for the evaluation and if the product is approved, the annual fee to use the seal is $3,500. The committee hasn’t ditched flossing entirely.
Not all dentists are accepting the latest news about flossing.
“It’s nearly intuitive on our part”, McFarland said. Well, it turns out that you and your dentist may be wasting your time on the topic of flossing. She compares not flossing to never cleaning under your appliances. “So there is a taboo. We’re seeing what the benefits and the consequences of flossing are”, Dr Vera said with confidence. If it works for you and you are comfortable with it, by all means, proceed. The floss should be used to scrape food off the sides of the teeth.
Gum health researchers told us there’s a lack of quality research when it comes to floss.
Advertisement
Ever since childhood, you’ve been told to floss, but a new study puts under scrutiny the supposed oral health benefits of flossing.
