If you often forget to floss, you’re not alone. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimate that almost 33% of Americans never floss. Another 37% don’t floss daily. The likely culprit? A lack of information on what makes flossing so key to your oral health.

Why Should You Floss?

Flossing is important to your dental hygiene routine, as it reduces the risk of tooth decay and gum disease by getting the small particles of food out from between your teeth. What makes it particularly effective is that while it takes out those food particles, it also obliterates the bacteria colonies that would eventually form the plaque on your teeth that causes those diseases down the line. Make it as important as brushing twice daily and visiting your Buffalo Grove dentist twice annually.

When Is the Best Time to Floss?

Creekside Dental recommends flossing at least once a day, but whether you choose to brush or floss first is your prerogative. People often make the mistake to skip flossing because their mouth feels clean, which is a misleading sensation. Without having taken care of the space between your teeth, food trapped in between your teeth can turn into plaque, which hardens into tartar, causing gum disease and tooth decay.

Make an appointment with Dr. Sara Chung, Dr. William McCune or Dr. John Micaletti, your Buffalo Grove, IL dental team for more tips and information about taking care of your smile.