Regarding flossing, at least in my case, it helps with my gum disease. If I don't floss for a while my gums start to bleed. Although, I use a water floss instead of a regular rope floss

Yeah, flossing is a good idea if you don't want to get gum disease. Also a good idea to learn to floss correctly, not just a quick "in and out". (also good idea so you don't get cavities on the edges of your teeth.) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WviE5aa5Ha0 (how to floss)

It's not clear because it IS nuanced, and it doesn't have the same effect on everyone equally. Two people using the exact same dental routine can have vastly different results from it.

I'll take the Cochrane opinion that evidence is lacking due to low quality small sample short follow up studies in those with poor dental hygiene.

Over the random internet randos views.

But thanks none the less!

I’m glad ifnflossing helps fights cavity but the main reason I do it is because it’s so gross not to. When you don’t floss you basically accept to keep bits of rotten food between your teeth for days. If you’re unconvinced, don’t floss for a week and then do, see what comes out. And don’t smell it. I warned you.

People's teeth (and brushing technique/effectiveness) are way too varied to make such a general statement. I flossed for the first time at some point in my 20s, did religiously for a year or so thereafter, and still do occasionally - but at no point was it like 'how on Earth have I not been doing this' or loads of gunk coming out, nevermind rotten and smelly. Maybe you have just the 'right' tooth gap that it's both too tight for your brushing but not so tight that stuff doesn't get stuck.

(And for whatever it's worth, all dental check-ups since some point in my early teens at the latest have just been a quick look around and yep all good - I'm not saying this from a position (touching wood I don't eat my hat next time of course) of terrible dental health.)

> People's teeth (and brushing technique/effectiveness) are way too varied

You're absolutely correct, because I don't floss that often, but every time I do a whole meal comes out, so I'm incredibly envious of your naturally clean teeth XD

Saliva does help in preventing bacteria build up. [1]

[1] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/1961328/

A checkup shouldn't be too quick, there are things they should be checking and looking out for: https://youtu.be/sDe50j0MFBU?t=95 (Dental Office RED FLAGS)

Yeah they really hooked the public with that.

Same with hair, and bacteria on surfaces.

Completely hookwinked Jo public.