The Importance of Flossing

We all understand the importance of brushing our teeth 2x’s a day, but surprisingly, not everyone understands how important it is to floss our teeth. Your set of adult teeth is all you are ever going to get so proper care is extremely important.

Everyone has bacteria in their mouth. The problem with bacteria comes when it has contact with food particles. The bacteria feed on food particles and produce an acid. This acid can eat away at the enamel on teeth. When the enamel is compromised, cavities are likely to occur.

To stop this process, we brush our teeth at least 2x’s a day. But when you are only brushing, you are missing something. The bristles on your toothbrush cannot reach into the spaces between your teeth. This is where flossing comes in.

Cavities may not be the only problem you encounter when you don’t floss. Some people experience the embarrassment of bad breath caused by bacteria they miss when they skip this important step.

So how often should you floss? What teeth do you need to floss?  The ADA recommends flossing at least one time a day. And you should make sure you floss all of your teeth, even the back side of your last tooth.

Flossing at least once a day will make sure you get that bacteria hiding between your teeth. Bacteria left between your teeth will eventually harden into tartar. You may be able to remove plaque from your teeth with a toothbrush, but tartar can only be removed by your dentist.

Unchecked bacteria in tartar can eventually lead to the gum disease Gingivitis. Gingivitis can wreak havoc on your gums and teeth and may even lead to tooth loss.

Next to brushing, flossing your teeth is the most important thing you can do for your oral health, so don’t forget this all important step. If you do not floss, you are only cleaning a portion of your teeth. The rest of your mouth will suffer.

It’s a good idea to brush your teeth after you floss to remove any food particles you have loosened by flossing. If you follow the ADA recommendations for brushing and don’t forget to floss, you will have fresh breath and a healthy smile for years to come.