Posted 2 years ago 2 Minute(s) to read

One question you are almost guaranteed to be asked at the dentist is, “Have you been flossing regularly?” Dentists ask this question because flossing is super important to your oral health and hopefully the answer you always give is, “Yes!”. The importance of this daily task has been thrown into question by media reports recently since the US Health Department decided to remove daily flossing from its list of dental recommendations.

This has had many dentists concerned that some people may take this change on board and discontinue their flossing routine. The Australian Dental Association, Australia and New Zealand Periodontists and the Australian Society of Periodontology have come together to issue a joint statement to reiterate the importance of flossing and why it should be a part of your daily dental routine. Part of the statement read:

 “The Australian Dental Association, Australian and New Zealand Academy of Periodontists and the Australian Society of Periodontology strongly recommends interdental cleaning such as flossing as an essential part of good oral health. Flossing disrupts and removes plaque and food in between teeth where a toothbrush cannot reach. Tooth decay and gum disease can develop when plaque is allowed to build up on teeth and along the gum line.”

Without flossing, there are parts of your teeth and gums that will not get the attention they need and deserve. Your toothbrush does not have the ability to get in between or under your teeth to clean your gums. Nearly half of the surface area of your teeth lies between them and this is why flossing cannot be neglected. 

Not flossing can cause a buildup of plaque on the teeth and gums which will lead to tooth decay and gum disease. Dentists will usually recommend that to ensure healthy and clean teeth and gums, your dental routine should include brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing once a day. 

Flossing is not just an extra little thing dentists suggest for you to do. It is completely vital to a healthy mouth. 2 minutes of flossing every morning or evening is a much better alternative to toothaches or having to undergo dental treatment. So, disregard any media reports suggesting otherwise: Flossing is just as important as it ever was.