Do I really have to floss?

We get it you are busy. Did you know that flossing once a day will only take about a minute of your time? Flossing is very important to your dental health. Yes, you should be flossing at least once a day. While brushing your teeth is just as important, it doesn’t remove debris and plaque trapped between the teeth. Tooth brush bristles are unable to do the task of floss. Flossing is the best way to protect yourself from interproximal decay or decay in between the teeth. Interproximal decay is detected by radiographs or dental x-rays. These areas of decay are commonly called “flossing cavities”. When flossing is done properly it should wrap in a c shape around the tooth. The floss should be brought gently to the gum line and then back up to the biting surface of the tooth. This action removes any food, debris & plaque trapped between teeth. When food, debris & plaque are left on the tooth for a length of time the decay process begins. Flossing should become part of your daily oral hygiene routine if it is not already. Try flossing every day for two weeks. You should find that your gums are healthier. Healthy gums do not bleed! If you want to increase the probability of a great dental checkup take our advice here at Carolina Dentistry @ The StateLine and make flossing a priority.