

You may have been told all your life that flossing is important, but do you know the reason why? Flossing your teeth has many benefits, including preventing additional trips to the dentist outside of your routine cleanings. (It’s ok, we get it. We love seeing you but know you don’t want to see us unless necessary.)
So, how important is flossing to your oral health? We’ll cover everything you need to know below!
Why is Flossing Important? 5 Reasons it’s Beneficial
1. Prevents Plaque Buildup
Flossing helps prevent the buildup of plaque on teeth and gums. Plaque is a sticky type of bacteria that accumulates on your teeth and in between your gums.
Unchecked plaque can harden into tartar, a more resistant substance that only a dental professional can remove. Daily flossing helps minimize the risk of developing tartar, which is a leading cause of gum disease and tooth decay.
2. Gum Disease Prevention
Gum disease, also referred to as Periodontal disease, begins as gingivitis. Gingivitis is inflammation of the gums caused by plaque buildup. Common symptoms include swelling, redness, or bleeding gums. If gingivitis goes untreated, it can lead to more severe conditions that affect the bones and tissue surrounding your teeth.
By thoroughly cleaning and flossing your teeth daily, you can prevent the bacteria from infecting your gums and gum line, which lowers the risk of developing gum disease.
If you’re concerned you may already have gum disease, our gum disease treatment services can help. We also recommend scheduling regular cleanings (every six months) to make sure that you stay on top of any developing issues.
3. Prevents Cavities
Cavities typically form in the crevices on and between your teeth, where your toothbrush cannot effectively reach. Trapped food particles in these crevices become a host for cavity-causing bacteria. When bacteria metabolize sugar from leftover food, it creates an acidic environment that erodes tooth enamel, leading to decay and gum disease.
Daily flossing helps to protect your enamel and prevent cavities in the spaces between your teeth by keeping this harmful bacteria caused by food buildup at bay.
4. Improves Overall Health
Did you know that bacteria and plaque from your mouth can travel and settle in places in your body, such as your arteries? Bacteria can enter your bloodstream and reach your lungs, heart, blood vessels, and other organs.
According to Harvard Health, researchers don’t yet fully understand the connection between oral health and heart disease; however, individuals with Periodontal disease were found to have two to three times a greater risk for stroke or heart attack.
5. Better Breath and Confidence
Bad breath, or halitosis, is often caused by the accumulation of food particles and plaque between your teeth. Entrapped food particles not only promote bacterial overgrowth but also release unpleasant odors as they decompose. Regular flossing helps keep your breath fresh and mouth clean while clearing out harmful debris. Having a clean mouth boosts your confidence, especially when talking to friends, co-workers, and family!
Is Flossing More Important Than Brushing?
While brushing your teeth helps to clean the surface, it does not get in between those tight spaces where food particles are likely to settle. Flossing and brushing are equally as important, as they each reach different parts of your teeth and gums.
What if You Don’t Like String Flossing?
Many people report that they don’t like to floss because cutting the thread and trying to wedge it between each tooth feels cumbersome. Below are some alternatives you can try if you find traditional flossing methods to be challenging.
- Water flossing is an ADA-approved method that involves a handheld appliance. This tool shoots a steady stream of water between your teeth to clear debris. If you opt to use a water flosser, be sure to spit out the water and do not swallow it.
- Interdental brushes have a handle like a toothbrush to help you reach between your teeth. They are typically easier to use than regular floss and just as effective, making them a popular choice for many.
- Dental picks are tiny wooden or plastic disposable picks with floss attached. Unless you’re using clean floss for each tooth, you can spread bacteria around your mouth. The ADA recommends wetting dental picks to help prevent gum irritation.
- Pre-threaded floss is another great option to try if you don’t like reaching into your mouth with a small string of floss. With pre-threaded floss, you can use a handheld tool to help you get into small crevices and replace the floss after each use.
- GUM® Soft Picks are ideal for on-the-go removal of plaque and food particles. The soft and flexible rubber bristles can reach small crevices and
Does flossing cause gaps or gum recession? For more flossing-related myths, tips, and tricks, visit our recent blog.
Maintaining a Healthy Smile
For a clean, confident, and healthy smile, flossing should be a part of your daily regimen. Your future self will thank you! It takes just two minutes to floss each day, and those two minutes are well spent if they can prevent hours spent in a dental chair or an irreversible disease.
Dakota Dental is here to support you on your journey to better oral health. Our friendly team of Apple Valley, Minnesota, professionals is compassionate, understanding, and non-judgmental.