Flossing—it’s the step in your dental routine that many people skip, but it’s also one of the most crucial. I tell my husband this every day! He’s not the best flosser from a technique perspective, but he has gotten much better over the years since we’ve been married and since I’ve owned Littlefield Dentistry here in Tulsa, OK. While brushing your teeth is an excellent start to cleaning them, brushing only cleans 60% of your tooth surface area; flossing reaches the other 40% (the tight spaces between your teeth and under your gum line). The recommended routine is to floss your teeth FIRST and then brush your teeth for two minutes. Follow this routine and you’ll have the freshest smile in all of Tulsa.
Incorporating flossing into your daily dental hygiene routine offers a range of benefits that go far beyond just a brighter smile. You don’t have to do it multiple times in one day, we’re just asking for once a day! Let’s explore why flossing is so essential and how it can improve your overall oral health.
Prevents Plaque Buildup
Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that forms on your teeth throughout the day. While brushing removes plaque from the front and back surfaces of your teeth, flossing targets the areas between your teeth. Without regular flossing, plaque can harden into tartar/calculus, which requires a deep professional cleaning by the Littlefield Dentistry hygienist to remove this excess tartar. By flossing daily, you’re giving your teeth a fighting chance against plaque buildup and its associated issues.
Reduces the Risk of Gum Disease
Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, begins with gingivitis, which is characterized by red, swollen, and bleeding gums. If left untreated, it can progress to more severe conditions, including tooth loss. Here at Littlefield Dentistry, we do NOT want you to lose your teeth! Flossing helps to remove food particles and bacteria trapped below the gumline and inbetween your teeth, preventing the inflammation that leads to gum disease. Consistent flossing combined with regular brushing can significantly lower your risk of developing these painful and costly conditions.
Prevents Bad Breath
Ever notice a lingering odor even after you’ve brushed your teeth? Have you ever been in conversation with someone and their breath is so bad that you count down the seconds until the conversation is over? That could be caused by trapped food particles and bacteria between the teeth. Flossing removes these trapped particles, helping you maintain fresh breath throughout the day.
Remember Mary Poppins? supercalifragilisticexpialidocious (not halitosis!).
Promotes Heart Health
Surprisingly, your oral health is closely linked to your overall health. Makes sense, since on average we swallow up to a liter of saliva (and all the bacteria in our saliva) a day. Studies have shown that gum disease can increase the risk of heart disease and other systemic conditions. The bacteria associated with gum disease can enter your bloodstream, potentially contributing to inflammation in other parts of your body, including your heart. Flossing helps reduce these bacteria, promoting better overall health. As your dentist, of course I’m looking out for the best interest of your teeth, but I’m also concerned with your overall well being as a human.
Saves Money on Dental Care
Neglecting your oral hygiene can lead to expensive dental procedures, including fillings, root canals, and even gum surgeries. By taking the time to floss daily, you can prevent many of these costly issues. Think of flossing as a small investment in your dental health that pays off significantly in the long run.
Maintains a Bright, Healthy Smile
Flossing helps remove food particles and plaque that can stain your teeth over time. By keeping these hard-to-reach areas clean, flossing contributes to a brighter, healthier smile. This is particularly important for those who consume staining foods and beverages, such as coffee, tea, red wine, curry, or tomato sauces. Don’t get us wrong, we love all of those, just make sure if you’re consuming those beverages or something similar, you’re brushing and flossing your teeth shortly thereafter.
Supports Healthy Aging
As we age, maintaining oral health becomes even more critical. Poor oral hygiene can contribute to tooth loss, which affects chewing, speaking, and even facial structure. Flossing is a simple yet effective way to preserve your natural teeth and maintain your quality of life as you get older.
Tips for Flossing Effectively
If you’re new to flossing or unsure if you’re doing it correctly, follow these steps for optimal results:
- Use about 18 inches of floss, winding most of it around your middle fingers and leaving a few inches to work with.
- Gently slide the floss between your teeth, curving it into a “C” shape against each tooth.
- Move the floss up and down to clean the sides of each tooth and under the gumline.
- Use a fresh section of floss for each tooth to avoid spreading bacteria.
If traditional floss feels cumbersome, consider alternatives like floss picks, water flossers, or interdental brushes. Some type of flossing is better than no flossing at all! The key is consistency—find a method that works for you and stick to it. You can always find our favorite floss at our merchandise table next to the check in area at Littlefield Dentistry.
Flossing is more than just an optional add-on to your dental care routine; it’s an essential practice for maintaining a healthy mouth and overall well-being. From preventing gum disease and bad breath to promoting heart health and saving money on dental care, the benefits of flossing are undeniable. By making flossing a daily habit, you’re investing in a lifetime of better oral health and a brighter smile. So, the next time you reach for your toothbrush, don’t forget to grab the floss, too—your teeth, gums, and Dr. Littlefield will thank you!
