How Important Is Flossing?

Brushing and flossing your teeth at least twice a day is recommended by dentists from all around the world. Although most of us brush our teeth regularly, flossing is often ignored. 

This is quite an unhealthy practice, which can lead to dramatic negative effects on your oral health. 

At Silicon Valley Dental Care in San Jose, California, we advise all of our patients with regard to the importance of flossing for their dental health. Read on to learn all about it.

What Are Plaque and Tartar?

The microbes in our mouth get deposited on the teeth in the form of a transparent layer called plaque. Plaque is a combination of microbes and saliva. When plaque is allowed to stay on the teeth for a longer period, it can lead to the formation of dark microbial deposits called tartar or calculus. 

Tartar is a hard and sticky substance that is really difficult to remove by simply brushing. It is known to be one of the leading causes of common oral conditions like cavities, gum disease, root canal infections, etc.

Tartar contains thousands of harmful microbes that release harmful acidic discharges when they feed on the food residues in the mouth. These discharges can erode the enamel and decay the underlying dentin, thereby causing cavities. In addition, tartar deposits near the gum line can attack the soft gum tissues and lead to gum disease.

How Can Flossing Help?

Flossing helps remove plaque and tartar deposits where toothbrush bristles may not be able to clean and also helps get rid of food residue stuck between the teeth. 

The intersections of the teeth are the areas where maximum microbial accumulation tends to occur. Hence, cleaning them regularly is a good preventive method to avoid cavities and gum disease. 

How Should You Floss?

Flossing done right can help you keep common oral concerns at bay. It is best to choose a piece of floss that is 18 inches long, as you can wrap the ends on your fingers and use it more effectively. 

Hold the floss between your index finger and thumb and slide it between the teeth gently. Start from the bottom of the teeth near the gum line and work your way upwards. 

Make sure you scrub both sides of the teeth thoroughly and be cautious near the gums to avoid cutting the soft tissues. Once you're done flossing all the teeth, gargle with clean water and discard the floss.

To get all your dental concerns addressed properly, contact Silicon Valley Dental Care by calling at (408) 224-1333, scheduling an online consultation, or visiting us at 5595 Winfield Boulevard, Suite 210, San Jose, CA 95123.