Is Flossing Actually Necessary? Here’s What Your Dentist Wants You to Know

If you brush your teeth twice a day, you might wonder: Is flossing really that important? Many people see flossing as optional or something they can skip when they’re tired. But the truth is, flossing plays a critical role in keeping your teeth and gums healthy - and it works best when combined with preventive dental care.

Why Brushing Alone Isn’t Enough

Your toothbrush does a great job cleaning the front, back, and chewing surfaces of your teeth. However, it can’t effectively reach the tight spaces between teeth or just below the gumline. These areas are prime spots for plaque and food particles to build up.

When plaque isn’t removed, it hardens into tartar, which can only be removed during a professional dental cleaning. Over time, this buildup increases your risk of cavities, gum disease, and bad breath.

What Happens If You Don’t Floss?

Skipping flossing doesn’t usually cause immediate pain, which is why many people underestimate its importance. However, the effects add up over time:

• Higher risk of cavities between teeth

• Inflamed or bleeding gums, an early sign of gum disease

• Persistent bad breath

• Progression to gum disease, which can eventually lead to tooth loss

Flossing helps disrupt plaque before it turns into a more serious problem.

Flossing and Preventive Dental Care Go Hand in Hand

Daily flossing is essential, but it’s only one part of a complete preventive dental care plan. Even with excellent home care, dental visits are still necessary to protect your oral health.

Preventive dental care typically includes:

• Routine dental exams to check for cavities, gum disease, and other concerns

• Dental X-rays to detect problems that aren’t visible to the naked eye, such as decay between teeth or issues below the gumline

• Professional cleanings to remove tartar buildup and polish your teeth

• Early intervention, which helps prevent small issues from becoming costly or painful treatments later

When flossing is combined with regular dental visits, it significantly lowers your risk of serious dental problems.

Take the Next Step Toward a Healthier Smile

Flossing removes plaque and debris that brushing can’t reach, helping protect your teeth and gums from long-term damage. When paired with regular dental exams, X-rays, and routine cleanings, flossing becomes a powerful part of preventive dental care.

If it’s been a while since your last dental exam or cleaning, now is the perfect time to prioritize your oral health. Contact Obeng Family Dental to schedule your appointment and let our team help keep your smile healthy. Visit our office in Port Orange, Florida, or call (386) 761-9440 today.