If you underestimate the benefits of flossing, you can have an easier time skipping it, or leaving it out of your oral care routine entirely. By doing this, you increase your risk for problems with tooth decay as well as gum disease, plus you make yourself more susceptible to a buildup of tartar! As thorough as you can (and should) be while brushing, it will be difficult for you to effectively clean the spaces between teeth without flossing. Unfortunately, while these spaces are difficult to reach with brush bristles, bacteria and bits of food can find their way in and create problems that call for restorative dental work. Our Riverside, CA dentist’s office can provide guidance on better oral care during routine dental exams, just as we can offer work during your visit that protects you from potential problems.

Flossing Reaches Areas Your Toothbrush Leave Poorly Cleaned

Your toothbrush can do a good job cleaning out areas of your smile that are hard to reach, like the grooves in your molars and premolars. Unfortunately, while your brush can clean away harmful microbes and debris on the surfaces of teeth, it can be difficult to trust it when trying to clean the spaces where teeth meet. When these spaces continue to go without care, you become vulnerable to bacteria buildup, which can lead to problems with tartar, decay, and gingivitis.

Flossing’s Role In Preventing Gingivitis

Flossing gives you a means of removing harmful bacteria that cause cavities as well as gingivitis. Gingivitis occurs when microbes at the base of teeth move beneath your gums and cause painful infections. In the event that your infection is not addressed in time, the condition can worsen and lead to many consequences, including tooth loss! When you floss, make sure you clean at the base of your teeth so that you remain safe against poor periodontal health.

Other Habits To Pick Up If You Want To Prevent Dental Problems

Hopefully, you make a habit of brushing and flossing thoroughly each day. While these tasks are important, certain habits can undermine your efforts to keep your teeth free from problems. Your diet choices can impact your well-being by causing cavities and by weakening your enamel. While people often take care to limit their sugar intake, they can hurt their resistance to decay by consuming too many acidic products, which can soften a tooth’s exterior. You should also make a habit of seeing your dentist for regular exams, as these visits provide thorough cleanings as well as the early identification and treatment of dental problems.

Learn How Your Riverside, CA Dentist’s Office Can Care For Your Smile

At our Riverside, CA dentist’s office, patients can receive quality ongoing care to help them avoid issues with gingivitis and decay. To find out more, or to reach another of our locations near you, contact the following:

Riverside Dental Group at Magnolia in Riverside, CA at (951) 689-5031.

Dental Associates of Moreno Valley in Moreno Valley, CA at (951) 697-6800.

Riverside Dental Group at Woodcrest in Riverside, CA at (951) 776-9001.

Oasis Family Dental in Temecula, CA at (951) 695-2290.

Dental Associates of Riverside in Riverside, CA at (951) 369-1001.

Dental Associates of Corona in Corona, CA at (951) 273-9580.