Dental care providers recommend brushing twice and flossing once daily for oral health. Flossing can be done using waxed nylon string, small brushes, or pressurized water to remove plaque and food residue between your teeth. Here are a few reasons why you should floss every day. 

Why Is Flossing Important?

1. Clean Teeth More Effectively

Dentists recommend flossing prior to brushing the teeth. Using interdental cleaners first can loosen and remove plaque and food debris between teeth, allowing toothpaste to reach and cleanse surfaces that the residue would otherwise block. 

In addition to offering more thorough cleaning, this allows the fluoride in toothpaste to reach, re-mineralize, and strengthen interdental surfaces. Flossing prior to using mouthwashes and rinses can permit antimicrobial agents in these substances to slide between the teeth, which kills harmful bacteria and freshens your breath. 

2. Prevent Cavities & Gum Disease

Flossing in conjunction with brushing more effectively reduces plaque buildups and prevents gum disease. The practice removes plaque from between teeth before it hardens and traps bacteria on tooth surfaces and along the gum line, which can prevent tooth decay, cavities, and periodontal disease. Additionally, since flossing removes food particles from between the teeth, it keeps the residue from rotting and producing acids that may deteriorate enamel and make teeth more susceptible to decay and cavities.

3. Promote Overall Health

Periodontal disease has links to other potentially serious illnesses. Bacteria that absorb beneath the gums may enter the bloodstream and attach to fatty deposits, leading to blood clots. Bacteria in the gums can also cause the blood vessels to swell and harden, which forces the heart to work harder and can increase blood pressure. 

Additionally, bacteria in the mouth may enter the lungs and cause pneumonia and infections. Since flossing removes more stubborn bacterial buildup between teeth and lowers the risk of gum disease, you may be less likely to develop conditions affecting other parts of the body. 

Keep your teeth, mouth, and gums healthy by supplementing regular flossing and brushing with professional dental care from Ronald L. Rasmussen, DDS. This practice provides routine teeth cleanings and oral exams to patients throughout Sacramento and Elk Grove, CA. Call (916) 689-1100 to schedule an appointment, or visit their website to learn more about their dental care services.