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How long has it been since you last worked with dental floss to clean your smile? Is this something you do on a regular basis, or do you see it as just a means of removing food that has become stuck? Consistency is important if you want to enjoy the oral health benefits of flossing. Each time you perform this task, you clear away bacteria and food debris that can cause bad breath, gingivitis, and tooth decay. While regularity certainly matters, you should also make sure you are thorough when cleaning these spaces where teeth meet. Our Mansfield, TX dentist’s office can talk you through better daily habits when you come in for your next routine dental exam.

What Makes Flossing An Important Part Of Your Routine?

When you floss, you clean spaces that are not easily cleaned by brushing alone. The bristles of a brush are ready to remove bacteria and food deposits left between the cusps of your molars, and they can certainly clear away harmful debris from the surfaces of teeth. With that said, those tight space where your teeth meet can keep them out. By flossing, you ensure that anything trapped between your teeth will be removed before tartar buildup occurs.

Are You Flossing Often Enough?

People who do not floss regularly make themselves vulnerable to problems with gum disease, tartar buildup, and tooth decay. In order to see real protection from this task, you should do it at least once per day. This consistency stops tartar from forming, as plaque deposits are removed before they harden. Make sure that when you do this, you take care to clean the entirety of the spaces between your teeth. Only moving the string back and forth will be less effective, particularly in your fight against gingivitis.

Other Daily Behaviors That Help You Protect Your Smile

Is it time to reconsider your approach to brushing? You should perform this task at least two times a day. Give yourself at least two minutes to thoroughly clean your teeth and ensure you are not missing any spaces. To keep your teeth safe throughout the day, take care to cut back on sugar. While people tend to know that sugar can raise their cavity risk, you may be underestimating just how much you currently consume in an average day. This miscalculation can make you vulnerable to a problem that demands a dental filling at your next appointment!

Your Mansfield, TX Dentist’s Office Is Ready To Help You Protect Your Smile

Mansfield, TX families can count on our dental practice to provide consistent preventive dental care. In addition to offering routine services, we do provide a variety of cosmetic and restorative procedures that can address any issues you have! If you wish to find out more, reach out to Mansfield Dental Associates by calling 817-473-6227.