{"id":115,"date":"2019-01-20T18:25:35","date_gmt":"2019-01-20T18:25:35","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.zumbrofamilydental.com\/blog\/?p=115"},"modified":"2019-02-20T18:27:24","modified_gmt":"2019-02-20T18:27:24","slug":"why-is-flossing-so-important-a-dentist-explains","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.zumbrofamilydental.com\/blog\/why-is-flossing-so-important-a-dentist-explains\/","title":{"rendered":"Why Is Flossing So Important? A Dentist Explains"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
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All of us know that brushing our teeth and seeing the dentist<\/a> for regular appointments are essential for keeping our teeth and gums healthy. But did you know that flossing is just as important? By not flossing, you allow plaque and tartar to build up on the sides of your teeth, greatly increasing your risk of tooth decay and gum disease. That\u2019s why dentists recommend flossing at least once daily.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

Why Brushing Alone Just Isn\u2019t Enough<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Most of us think of plaque as\na sticky, unpleasant substance that builds up on our teeth; and that\u2019s\ncertainly true. But, if you could look at plaque under a microscope, then you\nwould see that it\u2019s filled with millions of microscopic bacteria festering and\nswarming over your teeth. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

These malicious\nmicroorganisms scavenge nutrition from the food you eat, especially sugar and\nsimple starches. Not only that, they secrete corrosive acids as part of their\ndigestive process. This weakens the enamel on your teeth, creating cavities and\nleading to tooth loss.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Brushing is a good way to\nhelp control the growth of these unseen enemies. But brushing by itself just\nisn\u2019t enough. Even the best toothbrush cannot reach the areas between your\nteeth. That\u2019s why flossing is an essential step. It removes plaque before it\nhas a chance to harden into tartar, which is the next step in the progression\nof tooth decay and gum disease.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Why Tooth Care Is a Never-Ending Battle<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

The plaque formation process\nis continuous. As soon as you remove one layer another begins to form. This\ngoes on throughout your entire life, which is why daily brushing and flossing\nare both so important. It\u2019s like cleaning your house or changing the oil in\nyour vehicle. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Everything of value that you\nown requires some degree of maintenance, including your teeth and gums. But the\nsmall amount of time and effort you spend taking care of yourself is a real\nbargain, especially when you think of all the benefits that come from good\ndental health.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tips for Effective Flossing<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Here are some ways to get the\nmost benefit from this simple, effective practice:<\/p>\n\n\n\n