Why is flossing important?

In order to maintain a healthy and clean smile you must brush your teeth twice a day, clean your tongue properly, and floss every day! 

The 5 sides of your teeth 

There are five sides to your teeth, the front, the back, the top, and the sides. Brushing alone can only reach three of the surfaces (front, back, top) but not the sides. The sides of your teeth are in close contact with the respective sides of other teeth. This makes it easy for food debris to get stuck between them. 

When your teeth are not properly cleaned food, liquids, and other components along with the bacteria present inside your mouth will build up plaque.

Plaque Build-Up

Plaque is a sticky film that contains bacteria and will coat your teeth. If plaque is not removed when it is still soft, then it may harden and become “tarter.” Tarter becomes yellow, discolored, and hard to remove since it has calcified. Tarter can only be removed through professional cleaning by a dental professional.

Since plaque contains bacteria the build-up around your teeth can lead to the development of other oral infections. 

Remember to Floss

In addition to helping you keep healthy teeth and gums, flossing also helps preserve the aesthetic look of your teeth as well. Flossing is the only method that you can clean between the teeth where brushing cannot reach.

Let's recap, why is flossing important? 

• It helps get rid of plaque
• It helps avoid oral infections
• It keeps your teeth clean
• It helps conserve the aesthetic look of your teeth!

Next time your dentist at South Hill Family Dentistry asks you to floss more, now you know why. 

If you are looking for a personal dentist, family dentist clinic, cosmetic dental treatments, or are in need of other dental treatments please give us a call or request an appointment on our website!

Sources:

• https://www.ada.org/resources/research/science-and-research-institute/oral-health-topics/floss
• https://www.news-medical.net/health/Why-is-it-Important-to-Floss.aspx