Patient: Which teeth do I need to floss?
Dentist: Only the ones you want to keep!
While the joke may be corny, the statement is true: if you want to maintain a high level of oral health – and keep your teeth – floss daily. Brushing is only part of a good home regimen to maintain a healthy smile. If you’re not flossing, you’re not cleaning those hard-to-reach places between teeth where plaque lies in wait, ready to take aim at your oral health.
Plaque – The Hidden Culprit
Plaque is a sticky, colorless substance that continually forms on teeth. The bacteria in plaque thrive on the sugars and starches from the food and beverages we consume. Acid is produced, which attacks tooth enamel. If you see yellowish or brownish stains on your teeth, then you probably have hardened plaque, called tartar (or calculus) deposits. (more…)
