Flossing is a marketing ploy

Other View vs Mainstream View

There is a non-mainstream point of view that "flossing is a marketing ploy". Let's take a look into pros and cons of this statement:

1. Pros: There is no strong evidence that flossing provides any real oral health benefits beyond brushing and mouthwash. Flossing is an unnecessary extra step promoted by companies to sell more products.

   • Cons (Mainstream View): While the evidence for flossing may not be as robust as for brushing, numerous studies still show it removes plaque and debris between teeth, reducing risk of cavities and gum disease. Dentists recommend flossing based on an understanding of oral bacteria, not because of marketing pressure.

2. Pros: Many people who floss regularly still get cavities and gum problems, so what's the point? Flossing is a waste of time and money for no real benefit.

   • Cons (Mainstream View): Flossing is not a magic solution but is one important part of an overall oral hygiene routine. Its effectiveness depends on proper technique and consistency. Many people who floss but still have dental problems may not be flossing correctly or may have other risk factors like poor diet or genetics.

3. Pros: The idea that flossing is essential for health is just a myth perpetuated by floss manufacturers to keep people buying their products. These companies influence dental organizations to promote flossing despite the lack of solid evidence.

   • Cons (Mainstream View): Flossing has been recommended since the early 1800s, long before the modern oral care industry. Its importance is based on scientific understanding of oral bacteria and plaque, not industry pressure. Dental organizations critically evaluate research when making recommendations, and the potential benefit of flossing is seen to outweigh any risks.

Terms

• Gingivitis: Inflammation of the gums caused by plaque buildup, which flossing helps prevent. Example: Swollen, red, or bleeding gums can be signs of gingivitis.

• Plaque: A film of bacteria that forms on teeth and gums, contributing to tooth decay and gum disease. Example: Plaque buildup can be felt as a fuzzy coating on teeth before brushing.

Analogy

Saying flossing is just a marketing ploy is like saying washing your hands with soap is a ploy by soap companies. While soap brands certainly market their products, handwashing itself is an essential hygiene practice, like flossing, for removing bacteria and debris. Marketing may influence product choice but doesn't negate the underlying importance of the hygiene habit. For example, whether you choose a plain or antibacterial soap, the key is that you are washing your hands regularly.

History

1. 1815: First dental floss invented, made of silk thread.

2. 1882: Unwaxed silk floss first manufactured commercially.

3. 1940s: Nylon replaced silk as the preferred floss material due to its consistency and resistance to shredding.

4. 1950s-present: Various new floss types marketed (waxed, tape, flavored, etc), but flossing remains a standard recommendation by dentists. The variety of options are meant to encourage people to find a product they like and will use regularly.

How to use it

1. Flossing removes food and plaque from between teeth. Wind 18 inches of floss around your middle fingers, leaving 1-2 inches to work with. Gently guide the floss between teeth using a rubbing motion. Curve the floss around each tooth in a C shape and rub up and down the sides. Use clean sections as you move between teeth.

2. If bad breath, cavities, and heart disease are acceptable to you, then don't waste your energy on flossing. But if you want to maintain good oral health and overall well-being, floss at least once per day, ideally before brushing at night. Incorporating flossing into your daily routine is crucial for preventing tooth decay and gum disease over the long term.

3. If you have trouble with traditional floss, try tools like floss picks or interdental brushes. Experiment to find a flossing method you can do consistently. Talk to your dentist if you have questions or concerns about your flossing technique or what type of floss to use.

Facts

• Over 500 bacterial species can be found in dental plaque, contributing to tooth decay and gum disease if not removed regularly.

• According to the CDC, 47.2% of adults aged 30 years and older have some form of periodontal disease, which flossing helps prevent.

• A 2015 national poll found that only 4 in 10 Americans floss at least once a day, and 20 percent never floss.

• Daily flossing can extend life expectancy by reducing risk of heart disease and other inflammatory conditions linked to gum disease.

• The average person spends 38.5 total days brushing their teeth over a lifetime, but this doesn't account for time spent flossing.