Why Flossing is Non-Negotiable

When it comes to maintaining oral health, many of us believe that brushing our teeth twice daily is enough. However, this is a misconception that can have serious consequences for our overall health. According to Kami Hoss, DDS, author of If Your Mouth Could Talk: An In-Depth Guide to Oral Health and Its Impact on Your Entire Life, your toothbrush cleans only 60 percent of the surface of your teeth, leaving nearly half of your mouth uncleaned day after day.

Flossing, on the other hand, is a simple yet critical intervention that disrupts bacterial biofilm between the teeth—areas a toothbrush cannot reach. By reducing bacterial load, plaque buildup, and gum inflammation, flossing helps keep periodontal disease (also known as gum disease) at bay.

Periodontal disease is a common issue, affecting approximately half of adults in the U.S., according to the Cleveland Clinic. However, the risks associated with poor oral health extend far beyond gum disease. Research has shown that regular flossing is linked to reduced risk of dementia, Alzheimer’s disease, and stroke.

The Link Between Flossing and Disease Prevention

On top of preventing periodontal disease, flossing has been shown to have a positive impact on various chronic conditions. For instance, it can be an important part of managing diabetes, and poor flossing habits have been associated with a higher risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) and CVD mortality.

One study involving over 5,000 older adults found that never flossing increased mortality risk by 30% compared to flossing daily. This is because flossing helps reduce the presence of unfriendly bacteria in the mouth, such as Porphyromonas gingivalis, which can lead to blood vessel inflammation, damage, and tiny blood clots that could cause heart attacks or strokes in other areas.

So, how can one simple habit like flossing make such a significant difference in long-term health outcomes? For starters, flossing helps decrease inflammation in the gums, preventing a cascade of vascular damage throughout the body. Inflammation is a major driver of not only gum disease but also the chronic conditions listed above.

The Right Way to Floss

If you’re already flossing daily, you’re ahead of the game. However, for those who skimp on flossing or have yet to make it a routine habit, now’s a great time to pick up the habit. Dr. Hoss advises flossing at night rather than in the morning, as this allows you to clear biofilm before bed, when your mouth is sealed for six to eight hours.

When it comes to the right way to floss, Dr. Hoss recommends using traditional string floss, as it can get into the nooks and crannies at and below the gumline more efficiently than picks or water flossers. Simply curve the floss into a ‘C’ shape around each tooth and use an up-and-down motion.

While flossing alone is not a cure-all for heart or brain health, it is one of the easiest daily habits that can support both oral and overall health. By incorporating flossing into your daily routine, you can take a significant step towards maintaining a healthy smile and reducing your risk of chronic diseases.