Flossing is perhaps the most common practice people leave out of their dental hygiene regime. Either they feel they don’t need to do it, or they just don’t want to do it.
Flossing, though, is a MUST. Everyone needs to do it – even kids as young as two years old.
Here’s why.
When food debris and germs accumulate on teeth, a sticky film called plaque forms. That plaque then begins to produce bacteria, causing tooth decay and periodontal disease. Simply brushing your teeth is not enough to remove the plaque and bacteria. You need to floss as well – at least once a day. It’s the ONLY WAY to thoroughly remove plaque.
Tooth brushing is great for cleaning the tops and sides of your teeth. However, a toothbrush can’t get in between teeth like floss can. And, it’s important to note that most dental disease develops between teeth.
If you have fixed bridges or orthodontic appliances, then oral irrigating devices such as waterpiks can be great alternatives to floss.
Floss is the single most important weapon against dental disease and possibly more important than the toothbrush. Make it a part of your daily regimen.
