We all understand the cardinal rule of maintaining good oral health is brushing and flossing regularly. However, the reality is knowledge and practice are two extremely different things. Although we know these basics, it doesn’t mean we follow them. Flossing may feel like an annoying chore as you need to set aside a few minutes to do it, but this is an essential task that can make all the difference to your dental health. Please continue reading to learn how often you should floss and why scheduling an appointment with our seasoned general dentistry/dentists located in Basking Ridge & Morristown, NJ is in your best interest.
Do I Need to Floss?
Contrary to popular belief, flossing is just as important as brushing your teeth. Flossing is particularly important because it cleans hard-to-reach places, removing plaque build-up. Essentially, it helps remove food particles and plaque between the teeth and along the gum line that a toothbrush cannot reach. Many people are guilty of skipping flossing because cleaning a full set of teeth on top of brushing at least twice a day seems like a lot. However, when you skip flossing, it increases your chances of developing cavities, gum disease, tooth decay, bad breath, and other dental problems. The removal of plaque from below the gumline is essential. This is because it can erode tooth enamel and lead to the development of tartar, which can cause tooth discoloration. Therefore, flossing must be included in your oral hygiene routine to maintain a healthy and bright smile.
How Many Times a Day Should You Floss?
According to the American Dental Association, to prevent plaque build-up and gum disease, you need to floss daily. It’s recommended to floss at least once a day. As such, you should make flossing part of your daily routine so that you don’t neglect this important task. You should keep your floss right next to your toothbrush for easy access and a visual reminder. The most convenient time to floss is when you brush your teeth. This is likely in the morning or the evening. Many people wonder whether they should floss before or after brushing their teeth. According to a study conducted in the Journal of Periodontology, flossing before brushing is more effective at removing plaque between the teeth and maintaining the concentration of fluoride on the tooth enamel. Nevertheless, the best time to floss is when it fits into your schedule.
If you have any questions or problems, please don’t hesitate to contact the experienced team at Dental Associates of Basking Ridge, who can give you tips on your oral health. Connect with our dentists today regardless of whether you need a simple routine cleaning or assistance with a more significant issue.
