When it comes to keeping your smile healthy, brushing alone isn’t enough. Flossing is one of the simplest yet most powerful habits to protect your oral health. At DiGrazia Family Dentistry in Reno, NV, our dental team encourages every patient to make flossing a daily habit to prevent gum disease, reduce plaque buildup, and keep your teeth strong for life.
How Flossing Helps Prevent Gum Disease & Cavities
Many Reno residents don’t realize that brushing covers only about 60% of the tooth’s surface. The other 40%, those tight spaces between your teeth, are where bacteria and food particles hide. Without daily flossing, plaque can harden into tartar, leading to gingivitis, periodontal disease, and eventually tooth decay or even tooth loss.
Flossing once a day:
- Removes trapped food and bacteria
- Prevents gum inflammation and bleeding
- Reduces the risk of cavities between teeth
- Supports fresh breath and overall oral wellness
Best Flossing Techniques Recommended By Reno Dentists
Not all flossing methods are created equal! To get the most out of your routine, follow these dentist-approved flossing techniques:
- Break off about 18 inches of dental floss and wind it around your middle fingers.
- Gently guide the floss between teeth using a back-and-forth motion.
- Curve it into a C-shape and move it up and down along the side of each tooth.
- Don’t forget to go slightly below the gumline; this is where bacteria love to hide.
If you find flossing difficult, our Reno dentists recommend trying floss picks, soft picks, or water flossers for convenience. These tools make daily cleaning easier and just as effective.
Flossing & Overall Health: What Reno Dentists Want You To Know
Flossing doesn’t just protect your mouth; it helps your whole body. Research shows a connection between gum health and heart health, meaning poor oral hygiene can increase inflammation throughout your body. Consistent flossing lowers your risk of infection and supports better overall wellness.
At DiGrazia Family Dentistry, we believe your mouth is the gateway to your health, and daily flossing is your first line of defense.
Reno Family Dentist Tips: How To Make Flossing Part Of Your Routine
We understand that life in Reno can be busy! Here are a few easy ways to make flossing stick:
- Keep floss in your car, desk drawer, or bathroom counter.
- Floss before brushing to loosen plaque first.
- Use mint-flavored floss for a fresh feel and better motivation.
- Try a water flosser if you have braces, bridges, or sensitive gums.
Even small habits add up to big results for your smile.
Schedule Your Next Dental Cleaning In Reno, NV
DiGrazia Family Dentistry takes pride in helping our patients maintain bright, healthy smiles through preventive dental care. Whether it’s been six months or a few years since your last cleaning, our friendly Reno team is here to get your oral health back on track.
Visit DiGrazia Family Dentistry in Reno, Nevada, proudly serving patients across Reno, Sparks, and Northern Nevada. Schedule your dental appointment online to keep your gums and teeth healthy for life.
