Dr. Vasquez’s Guide to Healthier Teeth (and a Happier Dentist!)

Let’s be real—flossing often feels like that one chore we all know we should do but somehow manage to skip. (Kind of like drinking enough water or folding laundry immediately—who has the time, right?) But here’s the thing: flossing isn’t just something your dentist nags about—it’s a game-changer for your smile and your health.

So, is flossing really necessary? And should you do it before or after brushing? Dr. David Vasquez, DDS, at Five Point Family Dentistry, is here to break it all down.

Is Flossing Really That Important? In a word? YES! And here’s why:

🦷 Cavities love hiding in tight spaces. Flossing is the #1 defense against cavities that sneak in between teeth—where your toothbrush simply can’t reach.

🦷 Gum disease doesn’t play fair. Skipping flossing allows plaque to build up under the gums, leading to gingivitis (early gum disease). Left untreated, it can turn into periodontitis, the leading cause of tooth loss in adults.

🦷 Your heart will thank you. Research suggests that gum disease is linked to serious heart problems like stroke and heart attacks. That’s right—flossing isn’t just about fresh breath; it’s about a healthy heart too!

Floss Before or After Brushing? Dr. Vasquez Weighs In

This is one of the most common questions we hear at Five Point Family Dentistry. The best answer? Floss first, then brush.

Why? Flossing loosens plaque and food debris, allowing your toothbrush to sweep it all away more effectively. Plus, fluoride from your toothpaste can penetrate better when your teeth aren’t covered in gunk.

But here’s the truth: the best time to floss is whenever you’ll actually do it. If you prefer flossing after brushing, that’s totally fine—just make sure it gets done daily!

What’s the Best Way to Floss?

Great news—there’s more than one way to floss! Dr. Dave recommends picking the method that works best for you:

✅ Traditional Floss: Tried and true! Wrap it around your fingers and glide it between each tooth, hugging the sides for a thorough clean.

✅ Floss Picks: Great for kids or anyone who finds regular floss tricky to maneuver. Bonus: they’re perfect for on-the-go flossing!

✅ Interdental Brushes: These tiny brushes are a lifesaver for people with braces, larger gaps, or dental work like implants.

✅ Water Flosser (Waterpik): If you hate flossing, this might be your new best friend. It uses a gentle stream of water to blast away plaque and debris.

The Bottom Line: Just Floss!

Whether you use string floss, a Waterpik, or floss picks, the key is making it a daily habit. Your teeth, gums, and even your heart will thank you for it!

So, the next time you’re tempted to skip flossing, just remember: Floss like a Boss! Dr. Dave and your smile will be so proud.  😁

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