Most dentists recommend that their patients floss daily, if not after every meal. Why? Is flossing really that important? What happens if you don’t floss?
Flossing is when you use dental floss to remove food particles and other debris from the areas between your teeth. These areas are typically very narrow so it’s easy for food to get stuck there. Brushing alone isn’t always enough to remove these particles because the bristles of the toothbrush can’t penetrate these areas.
Flossing Essentials
When these trapped food particles aren’t removed through flossing, they can start to break down. Think about what would happen if you left a sandwich, for example, on your counter for a week. Basically, that’s what’s happening in your mouth when you don’t floss.
These decomposing food particles can create chemicals that can penetrate the gum line as well as the protective enamel on the outside of your teeth. Some foods, like those that are rich and sugar, can actually corrode the tooth itself, the leading cause of cavities.
Another negative side effect of not removing these trapped particles is bad breath. Food that is trapped in your teeth starts to smell bad, which can then be transferred to your breath. While you can get used to the odor, other people may notice it right away.
Bella Smile
But there’s a simple solution. Just get in the habit of flossing. Make it part of your normal routine in the morning and again at night. When you brush your teeth, take a few extra moments to run some floss between your teeth. It can help your teeth last longer and prevent bad breath.
At Bella Smile, we encourage all of our patients to floss regularly. It’s fast, it’s easy, and it can do your oral health a world of good.