A common question we hear at Stockholm Dental is, “Do I really need to floss, or is brushing enough?” Unlike many things in life, flossing isn’t a mere suggestion; it’s actually an integral part of good oral hygiene, therefore, an indispensable part of your daily routine.

The purpose of flossing is to remove plaque and food particles from tight spaces between your teeth and hard to reach places. Flossing helps to keep your gums protected from bacteria which can cause periodontal disease. Flossing also keeps your teeth free of decay and your smile white.

The purpose of daily flossing is not only to promote healthy teeth, it further contributes to your health in other ways. There is increasing evidence linking periodontal disease to an increased risk of heart disease and an increase of inflammatory substances in the blood. (See blog post Jan 11, 2022)

Teeth brushing alone may not protect you from gum disease and subsequent tooth loss in extreme cases; however, adding flossing to your daily routine helps improve the health of your gums which in turn prevents gums from bleeding and feeding bacteria which causes tooth decay.

The American Dental Association has recommended flossing since 1908 and that recommendation hasn’t changed. Make the most of your oral care routine.

Don’t skip the flossing.

To brush your teeth properly, follow these steps:

1. Wet your toothbrush and add toothpaste.

2. Hold your toothbrush against your teeth at a 45-degree angle.

3. Use gentle circular motions to brush the fronts, backs, and tops of your teeth.

4. Brush your tongue to remove bacteria and freshen breath.

5. Spit out the toothpaste and rinse your mouth and toothbrush with water.

6. Brush for at least two minutes, twice a day.

It’s also important to floss your teeth at least once a day to remove plaque and food particles from between your teeth that your toothbrush can’t reach.

For most people a visit to your dentist or dental hygienist every 6 months for cleaning is a must.