Dental tip of the week: Flossing

How important is flossing? Very!

Although brushing is the most important thing you can do for your teeth, flossing plays a very important role. The American Dental Association suggests flossing your teeth at least once a day because floss reaches the area of your teeth that the bristles of your toothbrush can not. Plaque and food particles can get stuck in between your teeth and under the gum line potentially causing cavities, tooth decay and gum disease.

If flossing isn't something done regularly, it's a possibility your gums may bleed--don't let this alarm you! Bleeding of the gums is due to irritation (there's a good chance that your gums are visibly irritated as well and appear more red and inflamed than usual). After consistent flossing the bleeding should stop and irritation should disappear, but if it does not, it's probably time to visit your dentist!