Flossing is one of the vital parts of dental health. It removes the plaque and food particles accumulated in your teeth and gums, leading to tooth decay or gum disease. You remove the food particles and bacteria that cause bad breath when you floss.
Why Is Flossing Essential?
Flossing helps remove the plaque build-up on your teeth and gums. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that forms on your teeth and gums. If not removed, it can harden and turn into tartar. Tartar can cause gum inflammation and bleeding. Flossing also helps to prevent gum disease, which is an infection that can damage the soft tissue and bone supporting your teeth. If not treated, it can lead to tooth loss.
How Often Should You Floss Your Teeth
Regular flossing is essential for good oral health. Floss at least once a day, preferably at night before bed. If you have trouble reaching all your teeth with floss, try using an interdental brush or pick. These devices can help reach the spaces between your teeth that are difficult to clean with floss. To floss correctly, use about 18 inches of floss and wind it around your middle fingers, leaving about an inch of floss between them. Grasp the floss tightly and slide it up and down between your teeth, using a gentle back-and-forth motion. Gently move the floss up and down before moving on to the next tooth.
When to Visit a Dentist
Visit your dentist regularly for check-ups and cleanings. Depending on your oral health, you may need to visit your dentist more or less often. If you have gum disease, you may need to see your dentist more frequently for deep cleanings. You should also see your dentist if you have any concerns about your oral health or need some tips for flossing your teeth effectively to keep plaque and oral issues at bay.
Flossing is one of the vital parts of dental health. It removes the plaque and food particles accumulated in your teeth and gums, leading to tooth decay or gum disease. You remove the food particles and bacteria that cause bad breath when you floss.