Is it at all possible that flossing could result in tooth gaps?

Q.
Hi I have started flossing but have a gap between my teeth(front teeth)..I thought this was initially die to gum disease but it doesnt appear to be the case, I was wondering if flossing widens the gap b/w all my teeth. I am a little concerned over this. Apparantely my son is having the same pattern of teeth structure as i have and some millimeters out which is not visible to a normal eye. Please suggest what to do about the former and the later issues. Is it good to get my son habitual to flossing at a very early age. P.s.: My son will complete his 3 years in january. My husband also has gap b/w his front teeth and a little bit inclined outwards. If it is gum diseasedoes that mean that my son will be likley to have it or is it not hereditory?
A.
Hello, it is unlikely that flossing can lead to the development of gaps between your teeth, if it is done correctly. There is a potential risk of damage to the papillae (triangular gum tissue between teeth) if your technique is “traumatic”, i.e., you force/insert floss and “hit” hard onto the gums.
Kids at that age have a deciduous dentition and it’s quite normal to see spaces between teeth, in fact it’s a rather good sign and it may indicate that there will be enough space for the adult teeth to be well aligned, so don’t worry. I believe you don’t need to floss your kid’s teeth, but if he complains that food gets stuck then yes, please do.
My advice is for you and your husband to get a proper gum health screening with your dentist. If indeed you have a positive diagnosis, then your boy may have an increased susceptibility to develop this condition as an adult (around his 40’s in most cases), but it’ll all depend on his general health and lifestyle…
I hope this has been helpful.
Dr Jose Zurdo

Dr Jose Zurdo

Mall Dental Care
Pall Mall, Manchester, M2 4DU
Web: www.malldental.com Tel: 0161 830 7300

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