How important is it to floss?

nat rosasco • September 14, 2018
A woman wearing a white t-shirt and earrings is smiling.

Although many people do have an established daily oral hygiene routine, there are not too many people who floss their teeth on a daily basis. Mornings can be very chaotic as people are rushing to work or getting kids off to school, and taking those few extra minutes to floss might seem like a waste of time, other than when you have a piece of food stuck in your teeth.

In order to understand why it is important to floss, you need to know what flossing actually does. When you floss daily, it can help to prevent gum disease and it can also decrease a person’s chance of having gums that bleed. People who floss are also less likely to suffer from gingivitis, which is an inflammation of the gums. If you leave little particles of food stuck in between your teeth, it can also lead to tooth decay.

Toothbrushes do a wonderful job of cleaning teeth and helping to remove particles of food and plaque from your teeth. Unfortunately, a toothbrush cannot handle the workload alone. There are places in the mouth that a toothbrush simple cannot get to. Floss is able to come in and finish the job that the toothbrush started. Floss is able to get into those tight spaces in between your teeth to remove any remaining food particles that the toothbrush could not get to.

It is also important to note that flossing is most effective when you use the right technique. It is recommended that you take about 18 inches of dental floss and wrap most of it around your middle fingers, while leaving about 2 inches of floss. You should then take the floss and gently bring it to the bottom of each tooth and bring it beneath the gum line, very gently. Once you move onto the next tooth, you will want to slowly unwind a little bit of the floss. It is also recommended that you move the floss up and down in between each tooth several times, to make sure that all of the food particles are removed.

There may still be some people who are still highly opposed to flossing, but understand why it is an important part of an oral hygiene routine. There are some alternatives to flossing that may be more suitable for some people.

Floss picks are small pieces of plastic that have a handle on one end and an inch of dental floss at the other end. It is very easy to hold and utilize and some people prefer this to traditional dental floss. Soft picks are another alternative that are still fairly new. This might be a good option for people who have braces and for older people, since they floss your teeth in a very gentle way.

If you are a person who never flosses, tartar can build it in your teeth and this can only be removed by going to your dentist for professional teeth cleaning. Depending on the amount of tartar that you have, it can make the teeth cleaning a little more uncomfortable since the dentist has to spend a lot more time scraping in between your teeth. People who do not floss are also more likely to have bad breath, because of the rotting food particles in their teeth.

There are so many benefits to flossing and flossing will only add a few minutes to your day. If you are someone who does not floss on a regular basis, you should schedule to get a professional teeth cleaning a few times a year.

Dental office, focus on bright overhead light and dental tools in a white room.

Teeth Whitening: What You Need to Know

By nat rosasco • September 15, 2025
The body content of your post goes here. To edit this text, click on it and delete this default text and start typing your own or paste your own from a different source.
Family cheers with champagne at a wooden table in a kitchen.

Holiday dental tips

By nat rosasco • September 3, 2025
The holiday season is full of joy, celebrations—and sweets. While indulging in seasonal treats is part of the fun, it’s important to keep oral health in mind. Here are some tips for keeping smiles bright through the festivities. Choose Treats Wisely Sticky candies and caramels cling to teeth, increasing cavity risk. Opt for chocolate, which washes away more easily. Stay Hydrated Drinking water helps rinse away sugars and keeps saliva flowing, your body’s natural defense against decay. Don’t Skip Brushing Busy holiday schedules can throw routines off track, but brushing twice daily and flossing once remain essential. Balance Indulgence with Healthy Foods Pair sweets with cheese, nuts, or crunchy veggies to neutralize acids and protect enamel. Schedule Post-Holiday Cleanings A professional cleaning in January is the perfect way to reset after the holiday season and start the year fresh. Holidays are about family, laughter, and creating memories. With a little mindfulness, you can enjoy every moment without sacrificing your oral health.
Apricots on white surface with leaves and flowers and wooden board, in a white bowl.

The link between oral health and overall health

By nat rosasco • September 2, 2025
Most people think of dentistry as separate from general health, but the two are closely connected. In fact, your mouth can reveal important clues about what’s happening in the rest of your body. Take gum disease, for example. It begins as gingivitis—red, swollen gums caused by plaque buildup. If untreated, it can progress to periodontitis, a more severe form that damages bone and tissue. Research has linked periodontitis to systemic conditions like heart disease, diabetes, and even Alzheimer’s. The connection comes down to inflammation. When the gums are infected, bacteria can enter the bloodstream and trigger inflammation elsewhere in the body. This low-grade but chronic inflammation is a known contributor to many serious health conditions. Oral health is also linked to pregnancy outcomes. Expectant mothers with untreated gum disease face higher risks of premature birth and low birth weight. Regular dental checkups during pregnancy protect both mom and baby. Even sleep disorders like sleep apnea can be detected in the dental chair. Dentists trained in airway assessment may notice enlarged tissues or teeth grinding, both linked to poor sleep quality.  The takeaway? Oral health is whole-body health. Regular family dental visits do more than preserve smiles—they safeguard overall well-being.
Family of three playing in a park. Parents hold hands with their daughter as she jumps. Sunny day.

Why preventive dental care matters for the whole family

By nat rosasco • September 2, 2025
When it comes to family dentistry, prevention is always better than treatment. Routine dental check-ups and cleanings are the backbone of good oral health, helping families avoid cavities, gum disease, and costly procedures down the road. But what exactly makes preventive care so powerful? First, professional cleanings go beyond what brushing and flossing at home can achieve. Even the most diligent brushers miss plaque in hard-to-reach areas. Over time, this plaque hardens into tartar, which only a dental hygienist can safely remove. Regular cleanings not only keep smiles bright but also protect the gums from inflammation and infection. Second, preventive care allows dentists to catch small problems before they become major ones. A cavity spotted early can often be treated with a simple filling. Left untreated, that same cavity may progress to the nerve of the tooth, requiring a root canal or extraction. Preventive dentistry also supports whole-body health. Research continues to show links between oral health and systemic conditions like diabetes, heart disease, and premature birth. Keeping teeth and gums healthy can reduce risks for these serious issues, benefiting the entire family.  For children, early visits build trust and comfort in the dental office. By starting young, kids grow up viewing dental care as a normal and positive part of their routine. For parents, preventive care means less time off work, fewer dental emergencies, and healthier smiles all around. Ultimately, preventive dental visits are about peace of mind. Families who keep up with regular checkups know they’re taking active steps to protect not just their smiles but their overall health.
Smiling child with hands on chin, in front of a cake, near plants and a window.

5 fun ways to teach kids about oral hygiene

By nat rosasco • August 31, 2025
Convincing kids to brush and floss can sometimes feel like a never-ending battle. But oral hygiene doesn’t have to be a chore—it can actually be fun! Here are five creative ways families can encourage kids to build lifelong healthy habits. Turn Brushing into a Game Set a timer for two minutes and challenge kids to brush until it rings. Brushing apps with music or animations also keep little ones entertained while they clean. Reward Good Habits Create a brushing chart and give stickers for each completed morning and evening session. After a week of consistency, celebrate with a fun activity. Let Kids Choose Their Tools Allowing children to pick their own toothbrush (with their favorite character) and flavored toothpaste gives them a sense of ownership over the process. Brush Together as a Family Kids love to imitate adults. Brushing together not only sets a great example but also turns oral care into quality bonding time. Use Stories and Songs Make up a silly song or story about fighting off “sugar bugs.” Turning brushing into an imaginative adventure keeps kids engaged.  These small strategies can make a big difference. Teaching children the importance of oral hygiene in a positive, playful way sets them up for a lifetime of healthy smiles.
Dental chair in a bright white room with examination light and dental tools.

Easing dental anxiety for kids and adults

By nat rosasco • June 2, 2025
Dental anxiety is more common than you might think. Both children and adults can feel nervous about a visit to the dentist. Thankfully, family dentists use a variety of strategies to help patients feel calm and cared for. For kids, the first step is creating positive experiences early. A gentle, friendly approach combined with a fun environment—like colorful walls or small rewards—helps children build trust. Parents can support this by speaking positively about the dentist and avoiding scary words like “hurt” or “shot.” For adults, open communication is key. Many people feel more comfortable when they understand what’s happening during their appointment. Dentists often explain procedures step by step, offering breaks when needed. Modern dentistry also provides comfort options such as nitrous oxide (laughing gas) or oral sedation. These tools help ease anxiety during longer or more complex treatments.  Simple relaxation techniques can help, too. Deep breathing, listening to music, or even holding a stress ball can make the experience more pleasant. The most important factor? Choosing a dental team that listens and understands. At a family practice, care is personalized, and building long-term relationships helps reduce anxiety over time.
Boy in orange shirt blowing dandelion seeds in a grassy field.

The importance of pediatric dental care

By nat rosasco • March 14, 2025
Good oral health starts in childhood. Establishing healthy habits early helps prevent dental problems later in life. Here’s why pediatric dental care is essential: When to start dental visits The American Dental Association recommends that children see a dentist by their first birthday. Early visits help monitor dental development and establish positive oral care habits. Key aspects of pediatric dental care Brushing & flossing : Start brushing with a tiny amount of fluoride toothpaste as soon as the first tooth appears. Limiting sugary drinks : Juice and soda increase the risk of early cavities. Encouraging healthy habits : Teaching kids the importance of oral hygiene sets the foundation for lifelong dental health. The role of parents in children's oral health Parents play a crucial role in their child's dental care. Here are some ways to ensure a healthy smile: Supervise brushing and flossing : Young children often need guidance to clean their teeth properly. Make dental visits fun : Choosing a kid-friendly dentist and offering positive reinforcement can reduce dental anxiety. Promote a balanced diet : Providing healthy snacks and meals helps maintain strong teeth. Address dental fears early : If your child is nervous about the dentist, talking about the process in a positive way can help ease anxiety. Long-term benefits of pediatric dental care Good dental habits in childhood lead to fewer cavities, healthier gums, and reduced dental anxiety in adulthood. Investing in early dental care sets the foundation for a lifetime of confident smiles and overall well-being. By prioritizing your child’s dental health now, you set them up for a lifetime of healthy smiles.
Colorful plate of vegetables and grains with fresh produce scattered around.

Understanding the impact of your diet for dental health

By nat rosasco • March 14, 2025
Your diet plays a significant role in maintaining a healthy smile. The foods and drinks you consume directly affect the strength of your teeth and gums. Here are some dietary choices that promote strong oral health: Best foods for your teeth Dairy Products : Rich in calcium and phosphorus, dairy strengthens enamel. Crunchy Fruits & Vegetables : Apples, carrots, and celery help clean teeth naturally. Lean Proteins : Chicken, fish, and eggs support tooth structure. Nuts & Seeds : Contain essential minerals that protect against decay.  Foods to avoid Sugary Snacks & Drinks : Lead to cavities and tooth decay. Acidic Foods & Beverages : Citrus fruits and sodas can erode enamel. Sticky Candies & Dried Fruits : Adhere to teeth and encourage bacterial growth. By making smart dietary choices, you can keep your smile healthy and strong.
Doctor wearing green scrubs with a stethoscope and a red heart in their pocket.

The connection between heart health and dental health

By nat rosasco • February 7, 2025
February is American Heart Month, making it the perfect time to explore the link between oral health and cardiovascular well-being. Research has shown that poor dental hygiene can contribute to heart disease, making regular oral care essential. How Are Oral and Heart Health Connected? Gum disease, or periodontitis, is caused by bacteria that inflame the gums. These bacteria can enter the bloodstream, leading to inflammation in the arteries, which increases the risk of heart disease, stroke, and other cardiovascular conditions. Signs of Gum Disease Red, swollen, or bleeding gums Persistent bad breath Receding gums Loose teeth  How to Protect Your Heart Through Oral Care Brush and floss daily to remove harmful bacteria. Use an antibacterial mouthwash to reduce plaque buildup. Avoid tobacco products, which contribute to gum disease and heart problems. Eat a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals. Visit your dentist regularly for cleanings and checkups. By prioritizing oral health, you’re also taking steps to protect your heart.
Sparkler emitting bright golden sparks against a dark background.

New year, new smile - resolutions for the new year

By nat rosasco • January 1, 2025
As we step into a new year, many of us set resolutions to improve our health and well-being. While fitness and diet often take center stage, dental health should not be overlooked. A healthy smile not only boosts confidence but also contributes to overall health. Here are some achievable resolutions to maintain excellent oral hygiene in 2025. Brush and floss regularly Brushing twice daily with fluoride toothpaste and flossing at least once a day removes plaque and prevents cavities. Setting reminders can help build consistency. Upgrade your dental routine Consider switching to an electric toothbrush, which can be more effective at cleaning teeth and gums. Replace your toothbrush or brush head every three months. Stay hydrated Drinking plenty of water throughout the day helps rinse away food particles and bacteria, reducing the risk of cavities and gum disease. Schedule regular dental checkups Visiting your dentist every six months allows for early detection of potential dental issues and professional cleanings to keep your smile bright. Limit sugary and acidic foods Reducing sugar intake lowers the risk of tooth decay. Swap sugary snacks with healthier options like cheese, nuts, and crunchy fruits and vegetables. By following these simple resolutions, you can maintain a strong and healthy smile throughout the year.