How Often Should You Floss?

There is a dynamic balance in the mouth.  Each person's oral environment differs based on genetics, eating habits, hygiene habits, and bacteria.  For the most part, all of these are inherited; we inherit tooth and jaw shape from one or both of our parents, eating and hygiene habits from whoever spent the most time with us growing up, bacteria from whoever fed us those first meals and tested our food for us.

Some people build up plaque very quickly and need to brush often or they will get cavities between their teeth.  Others build up calculus -- hardened plaque -- and need to floss or they get gingivitis (irritation of the gums) which could eventually lead to periodontitis and tooth loss.  Some people seem to put little effort into their hygiene and have perfect teeth.  I suppose when it comes to flossing, it all depends.  In a perfect world, the dentist will tell you to floss everyday; in reality, many people do not and they may not have to, but it is great to get into a daily habit of flossing.  Prevention goes so far in the mouth!  Spend time with your dentist to find out what the right regimen is for your oral dynamics.