When people think about oral health care routines, they likely picture brushing twice a day, and that’s a great start.
But if brushing is all you do, you’re leaving nearly 40% of your tooth surfaces untouched. Your teeth have five exposed surfaces, but brushing alone only cleans three of them. When you skip flossing, you leave two surfaces untouched.
Flossing is the unsung hero of gum health, and skipping it can set the stage for inflammation, bleeding gums, and long-term oral health problems.
This month, Dr. David Blaustein and the Chelsea Dental Aesthetics team in New York City explain why flossing matters and how making it a daily habit can transform your smile.
Your toothbrush can’t reach the tight spaces between your teeth or under the gumline. These areas trap food particles and harbor bacteria that form plaque. Plaque hardens into tartar, and tartar isn’t something you can clean at home. It must be professionally removed.
Flossing removes the hidden buildup your toothbrush can’t reach. This simple step helps prevent:
Think of flossing as the missing piece of your home care routine.
In the short term, flossing removes plaque and food from between your teeth, but the benefits don’t stop there. Flossing can have a long-term impact on your mouth and your whole body.
Even if your teeth look clean, plaque between them can still cause damage. That’s because bacteria release acids that erode the supporting structures of the teeth.
People who don’t floss regularly are far more likely to experience:
According to one study, flossers were less likely to experience tooth loss over a five-year period and reported better overall health.
Taking just one minute a day to floss can dramatically reduce these risks and support long-term oral wellness.
Your gums aren’t just the gateway to a great smile; they’re closely connected to your overall physical health. Research shows that gum disease can influence conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, respiratory illnesses, and even pregnancy outcomes.
For example, people with diabetes who floss regularly have 0.3% lower HbA1C levels than those who don’t. This number reflects a meaningful improvement in blood sugar control.
There’s also growing evidence that gum health plays a role in pregnancy wellness. Studies suggest that treating periodontal disease before the 21st week of pregnancy may help reduce the risk of preterm birth.
To get the full benefit of flossing, technique is key:
If traditional string floss is difficult, Dr. Blaustein can help you find an alternative, such as floss picks, water flossers, or interdental brushes. We can also give tips on flossing under appliances, such as dental bridges.
At Chelsea Dental Aesthetics, we’re committed to keeping your gums healthy and your smile bright. If you’re unsure about your flossing technique or haven’t flossed in a while, don’t worry. We’re here to guide you.
Schedule your next cleaning and exam today, and let’s keep your smile healthy from every angle beyond the brush. Call our office in the Chelsea neighborhood of Manhattan at 917-200-0219 or request an appointment online today.
