Flossing is one important key to fantastic oral health. Our dental team cares deeply for the state of your teeth and gums–so let’s talk flossing.

Brushing your teeth twice a day is, of course, essential for healthy teeth. It scrubs away food particles and plaque that can harden into tartar, causing cavities and other oral emergencies. But because your toothbrush cannot effectively reach all areas of your mouth, it needs a companion method to remove the plaque and debris it cannot reach. This is where flossing comes in. The crevices between your teeth–and the area where those crevices meet the gum line–can be very vulnerable to cavity formation.  Interdental cleaning is vital to preventing cavities in those areas.

If you are new to your flossing habit, it is normal to experience some discomfort. If the discomfort persists for more than 2 weeks, talk to your dentist.

If traditional floss is difficult for you, you can try other interdental cleaning alternatives. Floss picks or floss for sensitive teeth can both work well, as could a water flosser. A water flosser may be especially useful for those with braces or arthritic joints.

For more information, or to schedule your biannual dental appointment, call Clear Lake Dental & Associates in Clearlake, California, at 707-994-9414.  Dr. James Kinsel and our team are happy to help! We look forward to seeing you soon.