Every time you visit the dentist for a cleaning, there's one question you're almost certain to hear: "Have you been flossing regularly?" Are you able to answer "yes", honestly? For some people, they thinking flossing takes too much time so they skip that step and only brush their teeth. But flossing is a crucial step to maintaining your oral health, and we are going to explain why. 

Why is flossing everyday important?

• To prevent tooth decay. Plaque is likely to cause cavities if it's left between the teeth. When the bacteria that live in the plaque mix with sugar, the process of tooth decay begins. While brushing your teeth twice a day is helpful, flossing is the only way to remove plaque from the crevices between your teeth.
• To prevent gum disease. In addition to cavities, plaque buildup between your teeth can also lead to gum disease. Flossing will help remove the plaque's bacteria that causes this disease, allowing you to have healthier gums.
• To prevent bad breath. Bad breath occurs when food particles are left between your teeth. They will eventually cause a bad odor. Daily flossing removes the particles and helps ensure your breath stays fresh.
• To reduce the risk of heart disease. Scientific evidence links plaque and heart disease. This is because plaque contains harmful bacteria that can eventually travel to the body's organs, such as the heart. Therefore, flossing daily is necessary to remove the microorganisms so they can't reach the heart through the bloodstream.
• To avoid diabetes complications. Evidence also shows that gum disease can cause complications for people who have diabetes. Diabetics often have a weaker immune system. This means it takes longer to fight infections and inflammation, such as those that begin in the mouth.
• To decrease tartar build-up. If plaque that collects around the teeth is not removed, it can turn into tartar (known to cause gum disease). By both brushing and flossing, you can decrease tartar accumulation. But in order to totally remove it, regular dental cleanings are recommended.

If you don't care to use traditional floss, try a water floss. It uses water and pressure to remove food particles and plaque from between your teeth. No matter which method you choose, however, remember that daily flossing is important for both your oral and overall health.