Flossing is one of the simplest, most effective ways to maintain good oral health, yet many people skip it. Some believe that brushing alone is enough, while others just find it inconvenient.
While it may be a bit more difficult than just brushing your teeth, flossing plays a critical role in preventing cavities, gum disease, and bad breath. If you’ve been avoiding flossing, it’s time to rethink your routine and discover why it’s an essential part of maintaining your oral health.
The Science Behind Flossing: Why It Works
Flossing is more than just a routine habit—it’s backed by science. Studies show that people who floss regularly have lower rates of cavities and gum disease compared to those who don’t.
Flossing:
- Removes Hidden Debris: Flossing reaches plaque and food particles that brushing alone cannot remove.
- Prevents Gum Disease: Flossing reduces gum inflammation, lowering the risk of gingivitis and periodontal disease.
- Supports Whole-Body Health: Flossing is essential to your gum health, which keeps your teeth intact and smiling.
Flossing doesn’t just protect your smile—it protects your overall health, too.
What Happens When You Don’t Floss?
Even if you brush your teeth twice a day, skipping flossing means you’re only cleaning about 60% of your tooth’s surface. The remaining 40% is the space between your teeth. When you don’t floss those areas are left vulnerable to plaque buildup, bacteria, and food debris.
If you don’t floss you might experience:
- Hidden Plaque & Bacteria: Flossing removes the buildup that brushing can’t reach, helping to prevent cavities and gum disease.
- Increased Risk of Cavities: When food particles get trapped between teeth, they create an environment for bacteria, which leads to decay. Over time, you may have cavities on the sides of your teeth.
- Gum Disease & Bad Breath: Plaque that isn’t removed can cause an increase in bacteria and gum inflammation, leading to gingivitis (early gum disease). This can result in swollen, bleeding gums and persistent bad breath.
There Is Never a Reason Not to Floss
Some people avoid flossing for various reasons, but flossing is almost always the best solution. Here are some common reasons people don’t floss, and why those excuses don’t work:
“My gums bleed when I floss.” If your gums bleed, it means your body just needs to adjust to flossing, and routine flossing will help prevent bleeding. After a few days of regular flossing, your gums will strengthen, and the bleeding will stop.
“I don’t have time to floss.” Flossing takes less than two minutes. Skipping flossing increases your risk of cavities and gum disease, which can lead to much longer (and more expensive) dental visits. Time spent flossing can be hard to remember to work into your schedule, but it is well worth it.
“I use mouthwash instead.” Mouthwash is great for freshening breath and killing bacteria, but it doesn’t physically remove food particles and plaque from between your teeth. Flossing is the only way to do that.
Flossing Made Easy: Tips for Success
If flossing feels like a chore, here are some simple ways to make it a habit:
- Find the Right Floss: Whether it’s waxed, unwaxed, tape-style, or a water flosser, choose a type that’s comfortable and easy for you to use.
- Make It a Habit: Floss at the same time each day, such as right before bed or after brushing. However, flossing more than once a day isn’t necessary and could irritate your gums.
- Be Gentle: Don’t snap the floss between your teeth; instead, gently glide it down and curve it around each tooth to remove buildup without harming your gums.
Skipping flossing might seem like no big deal, but in reality, it plays a crucial role in your oral health. Make it part of your daily routine—your smile (and dentist) will thank you.
Flossing Boosts Your Oral Health
Flossing isn’t just an extra step in your nighttime routine. It’s an essential part of keeping your teeth and gums healthy. It prevents cavities, gum disease, and costly dental work, making it one of the simplest ways to protect your smile.
If you’re unsure about your flossing technique, Dr. Rath or one of our hygienists would love to show you the best way to floss, and make recommendations on the right kind for your smile. Call to schedule an appointment today.
