Is flossing really important?
A. Flossing is very important because it helps remove plaque and food particles from between the teeth and under the gums. These are places that toothbrushes generally have a hard time reaching. This is important in controlling gum disease and avoiding cavities between teeth. New studies have found that flossing may be even more important in maintaining the health of other parts of the body. When plaque accumulates between teeth it contributes to gum disease. The gums become inflamed and this causes them to bleed easily. The bacteria in the plaque can then get into your bloodstream and travel to other parts of the body like the lungs, heart and brain. This is thought to contribute to heart disease, stroke, lung problems and even memory loss.
