The Importance of Flossing: How It Complements Your Oral Care Routine By Dr. Andrew Kelly
Oral care is a routine that includes other vital practices, such as flossing. While brushing cleans the surfaces of the teeth, flossing reaches the areas that a toothbrush simply cannot. For Dr. Andrew Kelly, knowing the importance of flossing and how it complements brushing is a must for maintaining good oral health.
Removing Plaque Between Teeth
Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that forms on the teeth and gums. If not removed, it can harden into tartar, which is much more difficult to remove and can only be addressed by a dentist. By flossing daily, plaque is disrupted and removed before it has the chance to turn into tartar, helping to prevent cavities and gum disease.
Preventing Gum Disease
Gum disease, or periodontal disease, is a common condition caused by the buildup of plaque along the gumline. The early stage, known as gingivitis, is characterized by red, swollen gums that may bleed during brushing or flossing.
Flossing helps to remove plaque from areas that a toothbrush cannot reach, reducing the risk of gingivitis and preventing it from progressing to more severe forms of gum disease. For Dr. Andrew Kelly, consistent flossing strengthens the gums and keeps them healthy, protecting the teeth’s supporting structures.
Enhancing Overall Oral Health
Flossing helps in preventing a range of dental issues. It complements brushing by cleaning the 40% of tooth surfaces that brushing alone cannot reach. Regular flossing reduces the risk of cavities, prevents bad breath caused by trapped food particles, and supports healthy gums. It’s an essential step in a complete oral care routine, ensuring that every part of the mouth is clean and healthy.
How to Floss Correctly
Lastly, to maximize the benefits of flossing, do it correctly. Use about 18 inches of floss, winding most of it around each middle finger, leaving an inch or two to work with. Gently slide the floss between the teeth, curve it into a C-shape against one tooth, and move it up and down.
Dr. Andrew Kelly states that you must be sure to floss below the gumline, but avoid snapping the floss, as this can irritate the gums. Repeat the process for each tooth, using a clean section of floss each time.
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