Why is Flossing Important?

Flossing is an activity that dentists recommend you do three time a day–after each meal–and yet, most people have not flossed since their last cleaning appointment, even though it’s proven that flossing has a better impact on your health than brushing. This is because flossing can reach the spaces in between your teeth that no toothbrush, powered or otherwise, can reach. When that food is left there for days on end, it can lead to plaque and even tooth loss and decay.

There are other important reasons to floss as well, such as preventing the following:

• Gum disease
• Cavities
• Halitosis (bad breath)
• Heart problems
• Increased risk of cancer in the neck and head
• Periodontal disease
• Increased risk of dementia

Although the more severe problems are rare, there have been numerous studies that have connected them to the state of one’s oral health.

However, flossing has never been easier which means that you can start at any time. If the regular flossing doesn’t work for you, there are other methods that use air or water to flush out the spaces between your teeth. To find out which method is best for you, contact your dentist to discuss your options.