Why Is Flossing Important?

An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure as the old saying goes, and that’s especially true when it comes to your oral health. Common oral health problems like cavities and gum disease, which can wreak havoc on your smile and general health, are highly preventable with optimal oral hygiene.

If you haven’t been flossing every day, you’re certainly not alone. The sooner you start flossing the better, and it’s never too late to pick up the habit and get your oral health back on track. At Scott Young, DDS, our dentists and team offer a range of general and cosmetic dentistry services at our office in The Woodlands, Texas, to help you take control of your oral health.

Why is flossing important?

Over the years, there’s been some controversy and confusion over whether flossing is really necessary, let alone something you should be doing every day. The fact is that flossing is an essential part of your oral hygiene routine and an important companion to brushing. 

Have you ever sat down for a routine dental exam and wondered how the dentist just seems to know that you haven’t been flossing? Your gums are a dead giveaway. When you don’t floss, plaque hardens between your teeth and can lead to gum inflammation and gingivitis — the first stage of gum disease.

The main symptoms of gingivitis are red, swollen, and sensitive gums that bleed when you brush your teeth. If you have symptoms of gingivitis, or it’s been more than six months since your last checkup and dental cleaning, contact our office to schedule an appointment as soon as possible. 

When caught and treated early, gingivitis is reversible and won’t cause lasting damage. And while it might seem counterintuitive, flossing is actually the antidote for inflamed and bleeding gums! That’s because your toothbrush can only go so far, and some areas are difficult for your toothbrush to reach, leaving food and plaque residue behind. 

Over time, dental plaque solidifies into tartar and can cause pockets between your teeth and gums that trap bacteria. Dr. Scott Young and our team offer periodontal treatments to help repair damage to your gums, whether it’s a deep cleaning to remove plaque and tartar buildup, a gum graft to treat receding gums, or dental implants to replace a tooth that has become damaged beyond repair.

A simple flossing routine will keep your teeth and gums healthy and help to restore your oral health after treatment. If you have any questions about the best flossing techniques or need assistance getting started, we’re here to help!

For more information about the benefits of preventive dentistry and to understand your risk of developing gum disease and other oral health problems, contact us today to schedule an appointment at our office located in The Woodlands, Texas.