Why Is Flossing So Important?

Brushing your teeth at least twice a day is one of the best ways to keep your smile healthy and sound. But did you know that flossing also plays an important role in lowering the risk of tooth decay and gum disease? At Afton Dental, we encourage our valued patients to make flossing a regular part of their oral care routine. The few extra minutes spent caring for your teeth will translate into long-term healthy smiles.

What Are the Benefits of Flossing?

Flossing is a simple and incredibly effective way to remove food particles and plaque from between the teeth and along your gum line. Neglecting to clean these hard-to-reach areas can result in plaque buildup, leading to gum disease, tooth decay, and even tooth loss! Regular flossing helps remove plaque from between your teeth, ensuring your teeth and gums stay healthy and allowing you to enjoy fresher breath.

Aside from maintaining a bright and healthy smile, flossing contributes to your overall health. Studies show a link between untreated gum disease and serious health concerns, including diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure, and stroke. Harmful oral bacteria can enter your bloodstream, causing severe and sometimes life-threatening infections. Flossing removes about 80 percent of interdental plaque, significantly lowering the risk of gum disease and its devastating impacts on your oral and overall health.

How to Floss Properly with String Floss

Here are some tips to help you clean between your teeth effectively:

• Floss once a day and take your time to do so thoroughly so you don’t miss any plaque or food particles.
• Start with a piece of dental floss about 18 inches long and wrap the ends around your index and middle fingers, leaving about an inch or two of floss in between.
• Gently insert the floss between your teeth using a sawing motion – make sure to avoid snapping it into your gums.
• Glide the floss up and down, cleaning the surfaces between your teeth thoroughly.
• As the floss reaches your gums, curve it into a c-shape and gently clean below your gum line.
• Use a fresh section of floss for each tooth, and don’t forget to clean between your back teeth.
• Rinse your mouth with clean water or mouthwash when you’re done to flush away any plaque or food particles.

Maintaining a Healthy Smile

Preventive dental care is the best way to prevent gum disease and tooth decay and keep your smile healthy and sound. Make sure to brush and floss daily, and visit Afton Dental for routine dental exams and cleanings. Taking care of your teeth and gums will reflect on your oral and overall health.

Preventive Dental Care Near Me

Contact Afton Dental in Concord, NC, to learn more about proper flossing techniques. Dr. Hill and our patient-centered team are happy to offer home oral hygiene care tips for long-term healthy smiles. We are also pleased to offer preventive services to help keep oral health in tip-top shape. Call us at 704-788-1717 to schedule your appointment today!