“Feeling Guilt About Not Flossing? Maybe There’s No Need.”
This was a headline in a New York Times Health Section article published August 2nd, 2016, right when I was graduating dental school. To summarize, the writer maintained there is not enough concrete evidence to prove flossing prevents tooth decay or severe periodontal disease. At the time, the article created quite a stir in the dental world as dentists spoke out via social media, blogs, and websites about the effectiveness of flossing on overall health. The article does admit, “there is some mediocre evidence that flossing does reduce bloody gums and inflammation known as gingivitis.”
As a dentist, it is clear and obvious that flossing improves not only dental health but overall health. Flossing removes plaque and debris from between the teeth. There are numerous studies linking plaque to heart disease as plaque, which is bacteria, can enter the bloodstream and negatively impact the heart if not properly removed from between the teeth. In my short time working in Israel, I have seen far too many patients who simply never floss, and even had to teach several patients what dental floss was and where to buy it.
At least according to ChatGPT, 30-40% of Israelis floss daily, which is in line with other developed countries. So lack of flossing may not be a problem specific to Israel, but contrary to the article in the NYT, more Israelis should feel guilty about not flossing if they want to improve and maintain their dental health.
TIP: Bring your floss into the shower. Many patients complain how time-consuming flossing is (especially if done correctly). You don’t need a mirror and this idea should make for a more efficient routine.
We will continue this series with an upcoming article exploring the various flossing options available, such as floss, tape, flossers, and picks, to help you find the best method for your individual needs.
Dr. Steven Ritholtz DDS
Dr. Ritholtz is a Doctor of Dental Surgery from New York University College of Dentistry. After his studies, he completed a residency in general practice at Bellevue Hospital with a specialization in implantology.
Before immigrating to Israel with his family, he practiced dentistry in Manhattan for eight years, during which he expanded his expertise to other aspects of cosmetic dentistry, with a special focus on orthodontics. Over the past six years, he has become an Invisalign Platinum Provider, having successfully completed over 900 cases of orthodontic treatment, making him a leading provider in Manhattan. Dr. Steven has extensive training in sleep medicine and veneers, and completed further training at the Dawson Academy in studies of jaw joints and cosmetics.
Dr. Steven is now bringing his experience and success to Israel, with the goal of changing more smiles in the community.
In his free time, Dr. Steven enjoys cycling, hiking, playing tennis and spending quality time with his wife and four children.