Is It Worse to Skip Brushing Your Teeth or Flossing?
Maintaining oral health is essential for a healthy smile and overall well-being. However, many people wonder whether it’s worse to skip brushing or flossing. Both are crucial, but which one...
Maintaining oral health is essential for a healthy smile and overall well-being. However, many people wonder whether it’s worse to skip brushing or flossing. Both are crucial, but which one holds more importance in your daily routine? Let’s dive into the details and find out.
Which One is More Important?
Both brushing and flossing are essential components of oral hygiene. While brushing cleans the surface of your teeth, flossing removes debris and plaque from between the teeth where a toothbrush can’t reach. The American Dental Association (ADA) advises you to brush your teeth for two minutes, twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush. The ADA also recommends flossing at least once per day
Brushing vs. Flossing
Brushing:
- Removes Plaque: Brushing effectively removes plaque from the surfaces of your teeth, preventing cavities and gum disease.
- Fights Bad Breath: Brushing cleans your tongue and teeth, eliminating bacteria that cause bad breath.
- Protects Enamel: Fluoride toothpaste strengthens enamel and fights tooth decay.
Flossing:
- Prevents Gum Disease: Flossing reaches between teeth, removing food particles and plaque that cause gum inflammation.
- Reduces Interdental Cavities: Cleaning between teeth prevents cavities that start in these hard-to-reach areas.
- Improves Gum Health: Regular flossing reduces bleeding and gum sensitivity.
What Exactly Happens When You Skip Brushing or Flossing?
Skipping Brushing:
- Increased Plaque Buildup: Without brushing, plaque hardens into tartar, leading to cavities and gum disease.
- Bad Breath: Accumulation of bacteria results in unpleasant breath.
- Enamel Erosion: Lack of fluoride from toothpaste can weaken enamel, making teeth more susceptible to decay.
Skipping Flossing:
- Gum Inflammation: Missing flossing allows plaque to build up between teeth, causing gum inflammation and potentially leading to periodontitis.
- Interdental Cavities: Skipping flossing increases the risk of cavities between teeth.
- Tartar Formation: Plaque that remains between teeth hardens into tartar, which can only be removed by a dental professional.
Should You Floss Before or After Brushing?
While there is no definitive answer, many experts recommend flossing before brushing. Flossing first dislodges food particles and plaque, allowing your toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste to clean more effectively. Brushing afterward also helps to remove the debris you’ve loosened while flossing, resulting in a fresher mouth.
Recommendations:
- Brush Teeth 2xs a day
- Floss Teeth at least once a day
- Brush with fluoride toothpaste
- Brush at a 45 degree angle
- Clean all surface areas of the tooth, front & back, bottom & top
- Brush Your Tongue
- Do not Scrub Your Teeth, be gentle
Summary
Both brushing and flossing are essential for optimal oral health, each playing a unique role in maintaining your teeth and gums. Skipping either can lead to serious dental issues, so make both a priority in your daily routine. For the best results, consider flossing before brushing to maximize the benefits of your oral care routine. Incorporate KIWIBIRD oral care products to ensure your smile stays healthy and bright.