Here, the doctor's examination revealed that the cause of the abscess was due to food particles trapped between the teeth, causing inflammation. A review of the patient's medical history showed that Mr. Nam had a habit of flossing his teeth after meals.

Constantly flossing for a long time causes the gaps between teeth to widen. Food particles get trapped and lodged inside, eventually leading to inflammation as we see now.

Improper oral hygiene can lead to many dangerous health problems. Photo: Womenshealthmag.

The harmful effects of flossing.

Dr. Pham Nhu Hai, Head of the Department of Dentistry at Vietnam-Cuba Hospital (Hanoi), said he has encountered many similar patients due to the habit of using toothpicks. The dental expert advises against using toothpicks to remove food stuck between teeth.

This habit causes bone loss in the interdental spaces, widening the gaps between teeth, making it easier for food to get trapped, and leading to continued use of toothpicks. Over time, this action causes teeth to become spaced further apart, even loose, and weakens the gums.

Gaps between teeth also create a breeding ground for bacteria, increasing the risk of diseases such as cavities, periodontitis, gingivitis, and bad breath.

Dr. Do Manh Cuong, from the Department of Dentistry at Dr. Binh Teleclinic, advises people not to underestimate oral diseases because the health of the mouth is closely related to the entire body. When suffering from oral diseases, we face many cardiovascular diseases, high blood pressure, and a higher risk of cancer than normal.

Brush your teeth after every meal.

Many people don't floss; instead, they brush their teeth immediately after eating, believing this to be the most proper and effective way to maintain good oral hygiene.

However, according to Dr. Pham Nhu Hai, this is a mistake. Immediately after eating, acid penetrates the enamel. Brushing at the wrong time (especially within 20 minutes after a meal) will push the acid deeper into the teeth, eroding the enamel and dentin faster than the natural process. If you want to brush your teeth, you should only do so 15-20 minutes after eating.

Dr. Hai also noted that you should only brush your teeth 2-3 times a day. The doctor has treated many patients with chipped, worn, and sensitive teeth caused by brushing too many times a day.

"Every time you snack, you should rinse your mouth thoroughly. If you feel uncomfortable and want to use a toothpick, you can replace it with dental floss to remove any food particles stuck between your teeth. Avoid using toothpicks or brushing your teeth multiple times a day," advises Dr. Hai.

When brushing your teeth, experts point out that something few people pay attention to is cleaning the toothbrush. Bacteria can multiply in a dirty toothbrush and enter the body when used. Therefore, we should rinse our toothbrushes before and after brushing.

Before applying toothpaste, rinse your toothbrush under running water for at least 1-2 minutes. Replace your toothbrush when the bristles fade or after 3 months of use.

According to Zing.vn