I used to skip flossing all the time because I figured brushing was enough. Then my dentist showed me those horrifying gum photos and, honestly, that did it for me. I started flossing right before bed, even if I’m half-asleep. It’s not fun, but I’d rather deal with a few minutes of hassle than lose a tooth and have to shell out for an implant down the road. Those “dentist scare tactics” work on me every time...
It’s not fun, but I’d rather deal with a few minutes of hassle than lose a tooth and have to shell out for an implant down the road.
That’s honestly what got me too—my dentist didn’t even show me photos, just described what happens if you skip flossing for years. I always thought brushing was enough, but apparently, the stuff stuck between your teeth just sits there causing trouble. I’m still not perfect about it, though. Sometimes I skip a night if I’m exhausted, and then feel guilty the next day.
I’m curious, has anyone actually had a dentist tell them they lost a tooth *because* of not flossing? Or is it more like flossing helps prevent gum disease, which can lead to tooth loss eventually? I get the logic, but sometimes it feels like one of those “slippery slope” warnings. Would love to hear if anyone’s gotten a second opinion on this or maybe had a less scary experience with skipping flossing for a while.
