Looking for a simple resolution for the new year? Floss more!

Sure, you brush regularly. Yes, you might even rinse with mouth wash that kills bacteria. But, do you floss? Well, as we are sure your dentist loves to remind you - you need to!

Here are 4 reasons flossing is an important part of your daily oral health routine:

1. Flossing and brushing go hand-in-hand. Floss gets between teeth and up to the gum line, where plaque, tartar, and bits of food get stuck. Toothbrush bristles can’t get there. Neither can mouth wash. You need to get in there with floss and scrape the particles off. When bacteria build up between your teeth it can cause gum disease. You don’t want that.

2) Flossing can save you money! That’s right…the simple act of flossing can leave more money in your pocket. How? Keeping your mouth healthy with daily brushing AND flossing greatly reduces your risk of having a dental emergency. Studies show that dental emergencies can cost upwards of 10 times more than regular check-ups over a period of time.

3) Flossing keeps your mouth healthy—as well as the rest of your body. The oral health-overall health connection is well established. Flossing daily helps fight bacteria in the mouth. Bacteria in an unhealthy mouth can affect the rest of the body and lead to or create complications in chronic conditions such as heart disease and diabetes. The small amount of time it takes to floss regularly is worth the long-term benefits of good health.

4) Flossing is necessary. Period. No more excuses! No more, “I don’t have time” or “I brush well enough” or “It doesn’t really matter anyway.” Flossing plays an important role in keeping your mouth healthy. And, it can help you avoid costly and painful dental complications that may be harmful to your health. Your smile and your health is worth the small bit of extra effort!

Perfect Your Flossing Technique

Here’s the proper way, according to the American Dental Association.

• Take about 18 inches of floss
• Wrap the ends around your pointer or middle fingers for better control.
• Slide the floss between your teeth. Be gentle. You don’t want to cut into your gums.
• Move the floss up and down on each tooth to scrape away plaque.
• Rinse with mouthwash and brush your teeth.

If you are looking for more tips to keep your oral hygiene routine at its best, check out our info-graphic on choosing the right toothpaste for you!