Do You Really Need to Floss? | Bloomingdale Dentist Dr. Henry Kim

Do You Really Need to Floss? | Bloomingdale Dentist Dr. Henry Kim, DMD

The Truth About Flossing and Your Oral Health

You may have seen news stories questioning whether flossing is truly necessary for good oral health. At My Bloomingdale Dentist, led by Dr. Henry Kim, DMD, our answer is simple: Yes — flossing matters.
Cleaning between your teeth is one of the most essential habits for keeping your smile healthy and preventing gum disease.

Why Flossing Matters

Brushing alone cleans only about 60% of your tooth surfaces. The remaining 40%—the tight spaces between teeth—harbor plaque and bacteria that toothbrush bristles can’t reach.

Daily interdental cleaning (using traditional floss, a water flosser, or an interdental brush) helps:

• Remove plaque before it hardens into tartar
• Prevent cavities between teeth
• Reduce the risk of gum disease and bad breath

Scientific research continues to confirm that proper daily flossing significantly lowers your risk of tooth decay and periodontal disease.

What Happens If You Don’t Floss

When flossing is skipped, bacteria and food particles accumulate in areas your toothbrush can’t clean. Over time, this buildup can cause inflammation, bleeding gums, and eventually periodontitis (advanced gum disease).

Untreated gum disease doesn’t just affect your mouth—it has been linked to several systemic health conditions, including:

• Diabetes
• Heart disease
• Alzheimer’s disease
• Respiratory illness

Maintaining proper oral hygiene can therefore play a crucial role in your overall health and wellness.

Professional Guidance from Dr. Henry Kim and Our Team

During your visit to My Bloomingdale Dentist, our hygienists will demonstrate effective flossing and interdental cleaning techniques tailored to your needs. Whether you prefer traditional floss or a water flosser, we’ll help you find what works best for you.

Personalized guidance ensures you protect your teeth, gums, and long-term health with confidence.

Visit My Bloomingdale Dentist

Address: 183 S. Bloomingdale Rd., Suite 102, Bloomingdale, IL 60108
Phone: (224) 520-8665
Website: www.mybloomingdaledentist.com

At My Bloomingdale Dentist, we’re dedicated to helping every patient achieve and maintain a healthy, beautiful smile.
Schedule your next cleaning and dental exam today and learn how small daily habits—like flossing—make a big difference for your lifelong oral health.