2016 saw some news reports questioning the studies on flossing and its prevention of cavities and periodontal disease. As practicing dentists that see dozens of patients every day Door County Dental Care can attest to benefits of daily flossing. Certainly flossing is not the only contributing factor to good oral hygiene and a cavity / disease free mouth, but in our professional opinions regular flossing helps to eliminate food debris and plaque between teeth while also promoting healthy gums. Flossing can also help reduce the sulfur compounds that cause bad breath, which is produced by bacteria on the surface of your teeth. Flossing reaches spaces that a toothbrush simply can’t get to and if done properly cleans the sides of the teeth between other teeth.
In a recent affirmation on the importance of flossing the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services released the following statement to the American Dental Association (ADA).
“Flossing is an important oral hygiene practice. Tooth decay and gum disease can develop when plaque is allowed to build up on teeth and along the gum line. Professional cleaning, tooth brushing, and cleaning between teeth (flossing and the use of other tools such as interdental brushes) have been shown to disrupt and remove plaque. At HHS, NIH’s National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research (NIDCR), CDC’s Division of Oral Health and Healthy People 2020 have additional information and resources about efforts to address and improve oral health.” 1
The ADA recommends flossing or using other devices for cleaning between teeth daily. We at Door County Dental Care stand behind this recommendation especially when considering the relatively low cost and the absence of detrimental effects. Plaque removal has been demonstrated in individuals with good oral hygiene habits that include daily flossing, teeth brushing twice a day, and regular dental visits as recommended by your dentist.
Sources
1 Federal Government, ADA Emphasize Importance of Flossing and Interdental Cleaners
August 04, 2016
http://www.ada.org/en/press-room/news-releases/2016-archive/august/statement-from-the-american-dental-association-about-interdental-cleaners