Have you heard the old joke dentists tell where the patient asks, “Do I have to floss my teeth,” and the dentist responds with, “Only the ones you want to keep?” Well, that answer is pretty applicable here. The reason you need to floss every day is that this is the only way to remove plaque buildup between teeth. Within 12 hours, plaque begins to harden into tartar. This crystalized substance has to be removed by a professional, and it can lead to tooth decay and gum disease when not removed regularly. Flossing removes plaque between teeth before it can harden into tartar. If you’re not already flossing at least once each day, it’s time to start. Keep reading to learn more about the types of floss and get some tips for flossing more effectively. If you want to learn more or need help with flossing, don’t hesitate to ask at your next preventive dentistry appointment.
(more…)