ORAL CARE AT WEST MAMBALAM ASHOK NAGAR CHENNAI Flossing: A Key Step to Better Oral Health Flossing is often the overlooked step in oral hygiene, but its role is crucial for maintaining healthy teeth and gums. While brushing cleans the surfaces of teeth, it can’t always reach the areas between them. This is where flossing comes in, effectively removing plaque and food particles stuck between teeth that a toothbrush might miss. Why Is Flossing Important? Plaque build-up between teeth can lead to cavities, gum disease, and even bad breath. If plaque isn’t removed, it hardens into tartar, which can only be removed by a dental professional. Over time, tartar buildup can irritate the gums, causing inflammation and leading to gingivitis, the early stage of gum disease. Regular flossing reduces the risk of these issues by breaking down the biofilm that forms between teeth. How to Floss Properly To get the most benefit, flossing needs to be done correctly. Here’s a quick guide: Take about 18 inches of floss and wind it around your middle fingers, leaving a few inches to work with. Hold the floss tightly between your thumbs and forefingers and gently guide it between each tooth. Curve the floss around the side of each tooth in a C-shape, moving it up and down to remove debris. Use a fresh section of floss for each tooth to avoid spreading plaque from one area to another. Flossing Alternatives For those who find flossing difficult, there are alternatives like floss picks, interdental brushes, and water flossers. These tools can be effective for people with braces or those who have trouble using traditional floss. The Bottom Line Incorporating flossing into your daily oral care routine can prevent costly dental issues and keep your mouth healthy. Dentists recommend flossing at least once a day, ideally before bed, to remove any plaque that has accumulated throughout the day. While it may seem like an extra step, flossing is an investment in your long-term oral health that can lead to a healthier smile and fresher breath. Dental Clinics in West Mambalam Dentists in West Mambalam Dentists in Ashok Nagar Best dentist near me Best Dental Clinics in West Mambalam Oral surgeon in West Mambalam Dental Implants in West Mambalam