Updated in October of 2025
When it comes to taking care of your teeth, you know it’s essential to brush and floss them, but have you ever thought about why? You likely know that brushing your teeth keeps them clean and removes food particles from your mouth, but why is flossing an important part of your daily oral hygiene routine?
The Top Five Reasons You Should Floss Every Day
After you brush your teeth, it may seem unnecessary to take the extra time to floss every day, but it’s crucial that you incorporate daily flossing into your oral health routine. There are several reasons why this is the case, and they include the following:
1. Flossing Keeps Your Breath Fresh
If you want consistently fresh breath, flossing is non-negotiable. Tiny food particles can get trapped between your teeth and gums — places your toothbrush can’t reach. Over time, bacteria feed on these particles, creating unpleasant odors. Daily flossing removes debris, helping your breath stay clean and confident all day long.
2. Flossing Prevents Tooth Decay
Brushing alone can miss about 35% of the tooth’s surface. That hidden buildup can turn into plaque and eventually cavities. Think of flossing as your extra layer of defense against cavities and costly dental work. By removing food particles and plaque from between your teeth, you are less likely to develop tooth decay.
3. Flossing Enhances Your Smile's Appearance
Flossing not only protects your oral health, it also helps your smile look brighter. By removing plaque from between your teeth, flossing prevents discoloration and keeps your teeth looking clean and polished. A consistent flossing habit is one of the easiest ways to improve your smile’s natural shine without whitening treatments.
4. Flossing Protects Against Gum Disease
One of the biggest reasons for gum disease is plaque buildup along and under the gumline. When ignored, this can lead to gingivitis, bleeding gums, and even periodontitis, a serious infection that can cause tooth loss. Flossing once a day keeps your gums healthy, reduces inflammation, and protects the foundation of your smile. Healthy gums equal a healthy mouth.
5. Flossing Supports Your Overall Health
You might not realize it, but the importance of flossing extends beyond your mouth. Studies have shown a link between gum disease and heart disease, diabetes, and other systemic health issues. By flossing daily, you help lower inflammation in your body and support your overall health, it’s a small step with big rewards.
The Bottom Line: Don't Skip the Floss
Flossing may take only a minute, but it can save you years of dental problems down the road. If it’s been a while since your last dental visit, now’s the perfect time to get back on track.
At Ryan Rush DDS in Fort Collins, we make it easy to maintain your oral health with personalized cleanings, preventive care, and helpful tips to improve your daily routine.
Are You Looking for a Dentist in Fort Collins, CO?
If you want a dental team who truly cares for your entire family, look no further than Ryan Rush, DDS. Our professional team is ready to help you achieve both oral health and a beautiful smile. Please get in touch with our dental office at (970) 223-5393 to schedule an appointment.