Most dentists recommend brushing and flossing twice a day. However, while most of us have made a habit of brushing our teeth twice a day, regular flossing is less common. Part of this is due to the fact that there hasn’t been a wealth of scientific studies regarding flossing, and there is no official recommendation from the Department of Health and Human Services. That said, as a dentist, I can tell you that flossing or brushing with interdental brushes between the teeth is necessary for proper health and hygiene.
Without flossing, gums begin to get inflamed and bleed easily. Bacteria and plaque build up between the teeth, resulting in bad breath and causing and difficult cleanings in the future.
Children should be taught to floss from an early age, so that it becomes just as habitual as brushing. And for adults, it’s never too late to start!