Does flossing work?

If you just ate a big plate of barbecue or a spinach salad, the obvious answer is yes. But The Associated Press reviewed 25 studies and concluded that flossing doesn’t have proven health benefits, and both the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and Department of Agriculture have removed it from their oral health guidelines.

Many dentists disagree, however, and that’s not likely because of lucrative stakes in something so inexpensive as waxed string. The connection between flossing and cavities is inconclusive, but the positive effect of flossing on preventing gum disease is clear, which is why oral health professionals still recommend doing it at least once a day. A toothbrush cannot reach between your teeth and flossing is the only way to remove stray bits of food that can cause gum inflammation. Almost half of Americans have gum disease, which is linked to heart disease, diabetes and other health conditions.