We’ve all heard it from our dentist: “Don’t forget to floss!” But if you’re like many people, flossing might be the part of your oral care routine that’s easiest to skip. After all, if you brush twice a day, isn’t that enough? Not quite. Flossing every day plays a critical role in keeping your teeth, gums, and overall health in top shape. Here are 5 reasons this small habit makes a big difference.
1. Brushing Alone Can’t Reach Every Surface
Your toothbrush does a great job cleaning the front, back, and chewing surfaces of your teeth, but it can’t reach the tight spaces between them. Food particles and plaque often get stuck in these areas, and if they’re left there, bacteria can thrive. Flossing removes debris and plaque from between teeth and along the gumline, where cavities and gum disease often start.
2. It Helps Prevent Gum Disease
One of the earliest stages of gum disease is gingivitis, which causes redness, swelling, and bleeding gums. Daily flossing disrupts bacterial colonies before they can harden into tartar, keeping your gums healthier and lowering your risk of periodontal disease, a more advanced form of gum disease that can lead to tooth loss.
3. Flossing Protects Your Overall Health
The health of your mouth and body are connected. Gum disease has been linked to heart disease, diabetes, respiratory infections, and even pregnancy complications. By flossing every day, you’re not only protecting your smile—you’re helping reduce inflammation and bacterial spread that could affect your entire body.
4. It Keeps Your Breath Fresher
Bad breath isn’t always caused by what you eat; sometimes, it’s from lingering food particles and bacteria between your teeth. These trapped particles can produce an unpleasant odor over time. Flossing removes the debris before it can break down, keeping your breath fresher and your confidence higher.
5. It’s Quick, Simple, and Cost-Effective
Flossing takes just a couple of minutes and costs far less than fillings, deep cleanings, or periodontal treatments. Think of it as a small daily investment that saves you time, discomfort, and money in the long run.
Tips for Making Flossing Easier
- Find the right tool: If traditional string floss feels awkward, try floss picks, interdental brushes, or a water flosser.
- Be gentle: Avoid snapping the floss down, which can hurt your gums. Instead, slide it between your teeth and curve it around each tooth in a “C” shape.
- Make it a habit: Floss at the same time every day, such as before bed, so it becomes second nature.
Flossing every day isn’t just a box to check off on your dental to-do list—it’s a vital step in protecting your oral and overall health. When combined with twice-daily brushing and regular dental checkups, this simple habit can help keep your smile bright, your breath fresh, and your gums healthy for years to come.
About the Author
Dr. Emilia Godoy-Rapport has been practicing in the Orlando area for 20 years! She received her dental degree from the University of Florida in Gainesville. If you’re looking for a dentist to provide you with preventive care such as cleanings and exams, trust Dr. Godoy-Rapport and our expert team at Windermere Center for Dentistry to take care of you! Simply head to our website to schedule an appointment or call us at (407) 909-1097.