Gingivitis is a form of periodontal disease. It is an inflammation, which damages the tissues supporting the teeth. It occurs due to the effects of plaque deposits on the surface of the teeth. Plaque turns into a calculus that becomes trapped at the base of the tooth and irritate the gum. (MedlinePlus, 2014). Flossing with tooth brushing has significant impact in reducing gingivitis as compared to tooth brushing alone. Tooth brushing is considered one of the options of teeth cleaning. It can remove some plaque on the tooth surface, but cannot reach proximal areas which are between the teeth. Therefore, food can accumulate in the proximal areas leading to gingivitis. Otherwise, flossing can reach these areas according to its thin structure.
