Many people believe that flossing is an essential part of maintaining good oral health, but flossing can be a time-consuming task, and it's easy to skip it from time to time. However, research shows that flossing is an important step in preventing tooth decay and gum disease, and dentists will often be able to tell if you don't floss regularly.
When you don't floss regularly, plaque will build up on your teeth and along the gum line. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that can cause cavities and gingivitis, which is the early stage of gum disease. If gingivitis isn't treated, it can progress to periodontitis, which is a more severe form of gum disease that can damage the bone that supports your teeth.