While brushing and flossing both are important for keeping your teeth healthy, you may wonder, which one of them is worse to skip. Let’s find out.

WHICH ONE IS MORE IMPORTANT?

Oral health is a crucial part of your overall health and your oral condition has an impact on your overall well-being. The American Dental Association advises you to brush your teeth for 2 minutes at least twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush. According to ADA, you must also floss your teeth once a day. But which one is more important? The dentist in Sugar Land helps in finding out.

BRUSHING VS. FLOSSING

According to the dentist in Sugar Land, TX, brushing, and flossing both are important for your dental health. However, if you have to choose one, flossing is more important and sufficient if done properly. The aim of flossing is to remove the plaque, which consists of active colonies of destructive bacteria. Brushing only removes plaque from the front and back of the teeth while flossing removes plaque from between your teeth and underneath the gums. These are hard to reach areas where most destructive microbes live. Failing to remove plaque from these areas can cause gum disease such as gingivitis.

FLOSSING

For benefitting from flossing, you need to first learn how to floss. According to the dentist in Sugar Land, proper flossing involves wrapping the floss in a “c- shape” and covering as much surface of the tooth as possible. Make sure you move the floss up and down along the outer surface and under the gum tissue. This way, the floss will clean the plaque from both the outer and inner surface of the teeth and beneath the gums.

FLOSSING AND YOUR HEALTH

Proper oral hygiene will not only keep your breath fresh but also your gums and teeth healthy. It can also prevent the risk of developing periodontal diseases. Gum disease can put you at risk of premature birth, cardiovascular disease, dementia, and diabetes, says the dentist in 77479.

Maintaining a good oral hygiene routine can make you healthier.