Do you brush your teeth every night but turn your shoulder to floss? While brushing your teeth is an essential part of your oral care routine, daily flossing is equally important! Flossing helps remove plaque and debris from hard-to-reach areas between your teeth and along the gum line. We’re sharing three key benefits of incorporating daily flossing into your oral care routine.
Flossing Prevents Gum Disease
Flossing is vital in preventing gum disease, also known as periodontal disease. Regular flossing removes plaque, which is a sticky film of bacteria. If left untreated, plaque can harden into tartar, leading to gum inflammation, bleeding, and gum disease. By flossing daily, you effectively remove plaque and reduce the risk of developing gum disease, ensuring healthier gums and a beautiful smile.
Flossing Reduces Cavities
Flossing helps prevent cavities by removing plaque and food particles from areas your toothbrush can’t reach. When plaque remains between your teeth, it can erode tooth enamel leading to the formation of cavities. By incorporating daily flossing into your routine, you significantly decrease the chances of developing cavities.
Flossing Enhances Fresh Breath
Persistent bad breath can be embarrassing and affect your confidence. Flossing is an effective way to combat bad breath since it helps remove the food particles and bacteria that can cause unpleasant odors. By eliminating these odor-causing culprits, you can enjoy fresher breath and feel more confident interacting with others!
How to Floss Correctly
To maximize the benefits of flossing, it’s important to floss correctly. While there are several ways to floss and many different kinds of floss, a great way to start is by using the following tips:
- Start with approximately 18 inches of dental floss and wrap most of it around your middle fingers, leaving a small section to work with.
- Hold the floss tightly between your thumbs and forefingers and gently insert it between two teeth.
- Curve the floss around each tooth in a C-shape and glide it up and down. Be careful not to snap or force the floss, as it may harm your gums.
- Use a clean section of the floss for each tooth, ensuring you reach both sides and go beneath the gum line.
- Rinse your mouth thoroughly after flossing to remove any dislodged particles.
Schedule a Dental Appointment in Austin, TX
Daily flossing is an essential part of maintaining optimal oral health. By flossing, you can prevent gum disease, reduce cavities, and enjoy fresher breath. If you’re concerned about how to floss, teaching your child to floss, or other ways to protect your smile, contact our office to learn about our preventive and children’s dentistry treatments!
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