Why Flossing Matters To Your Overall Dental Health

Last week, we shared with you some toothbrushing tips so that you can better keep up your good oral hygiene habits. However, brushing is just one part of your dental routine. The other one is flossing, you know, that thing we always ask if you are keeping up with it when you visit us. We ask about it because it is important to your overall dental health. With that in mind, your Houston, TX, dentist is happy to share some information about flossing that will convince you to keep doing it regularly. 

Getting At The Things In Between Your Teeth

When you brush your teeth, you are removing bacteria that is on the top and sides of them. However, bacteria like to hide, and one of its favorite places is in between your teeth. If you have leftover food there, bacteria will feed on it and produce acids that could lead to tooth decay. This, in turn, may lead to cavities, and they are left untreated, could eventually become gum disease. And if tartar forms in your mouth, you will have to visit us to remove it before it leads to any of these issues.  

The Proper Way To Clean What Is Between The Teeth

Most people will use their fingernails to clean between their teeth. Some may even use cutlery, folded paper, or something dangerous, like safety pins. Please never use anything sharp or pointed to clean between your teeth. They can cause harm to your gum tissue and teeth. Instead, we suggest you use tools that are designed to clean between your teeth, like dental picks, string floss, small brushes, and water flossers. If you are unsure which one is best for you to use, we can help you make that decision.

Flossing Can Be Done At Anytime

We most often recommend that you floss at night as part of your bedtime routine. However, you can do it anytime. While the time of day is not important, what is important is how well you do it. Make sure you are thoroughly cleaning between your teeth. And it should go without saying, but there should never be any pain or bleeding while you floss. If there is, you could be doing it too hard. Too gentle, though, and you may not remove all the excess food. Visit us, and we can help show you the proper flossing technique.  

Schedule Your Next Checkup With Us

Keeping up with daily habits like flossing is a good strategy for taking care of your overall dental health. If you have questions or need instructions on how to maintain your oral health, we are here to help. To find out more about our approach to family dentistry, please schedule a consultation with Dr. Michael Chan by calling MMC Dental in Houston, TX, today at (713) 926-8896.