Flossing is an essential part of maintaining good oral health.

While brushing your teeth is important for cleaning the surfaces of your teeth, flossing helps remove plaque and debris from the spaces between your teeth and along the gumline.

Here are some reasons why flossing is important:

1. Removes plaque and bacteria: Flossing helps remove plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that forms on the teeth. If not removed, plaque can harden into tartar, which can only be removed by a dental professional. Plaque and tartar contribute to tooth decay and gum disease.
2. Prevents gum disease: Flossing helps prevent gum disease, also known as periodontal disease. When plaque and bacteria accumulate along the gum line, they can cause inflammation and infection, leading to gum disease. Regular flossing helps remove these harmful substances and reduces the risk of gum disease.
3. Reduces the risk of cavities: Flossing removes food particles and plaque from between the teeth, where toothbrush bristles cannot reach effectively. By removing these substances, flossing helps prevent the formation of cavities in those hard-to-reach areas.
4. Maintains fresh breath: Food particles trapped between the teeth can contribute to bad breath. Flossing helps remove these particles, along with bacteria and plaque, reducing the chances of having unpleasant breath.
5. Improves overall oral health: Flossing, when combined with regular brushing and routine dental check-ups, promotes overall oral health. It helps maintain healthy gums, prevents tooth decay, reduces the risk of gum disease, and contributes to fresher breath.