How often has the dentist told you that you should floss daily? There’s a reason they always tell you that. Flossing is an essential part of your dental health, and it should be incorporated into your daily dental routine and made just as important as brushing. Flossing has numerous benefits and helps prevent serious health problems, both dental and non-dental. Learn more about the importance of flossing from the experts at Southpoint Quality Dental!
The Science Behind Flossing
What does flossing do besides getting the trapped food out between your teeth? Flossing helps remove debris, plaque, and buildup in areas you may have missed when brushing. Plaque occurs when bacteria in your mouth mix with sugars and starches from food and drinks, creating a sticky film on your teeth. If not correctly taken care of or removed, debris, plaque, and buildup can lead to dental issues such as cavities and other problems.
Preventing Gum Disease, Tooth Decay, and Bad Breath
Flossing has a significant impact on gum health. It helps prevent gum diseases such as Gingivitis. In extreme cases, Gingivitis can lead to periodontitis, a chronic infection that damages the gums and surrounding tissue and is a leading cause of tooth loss. Regular flossing can also prevent more common dental occurrences, including cavities, tooth decay, and bad breath.
Flossing for Long-Term Health
If you’re still not convinced that regular flossing is critical to your health, consider this: there is a link between oral and physical health. Poor oral health, specifically gum disease, has been proven to have an increased risk of heart disease and diabetes. Bacteria from gum infections can enter your bloodstream and cause inflammation, impacting these severe conditions. Regular flossing can help reduce your risk of serious health problems.
Common Excuses and How to Overcome Them
We understand that flossing can feel like a chore. It’s easy to find excuses not to floss, like “I don’t have time” or “My gums bleed when I floss.” The best way to incorporate flossing into your daily routine is to make it a habit. Some ways to make flossing a habit in your everyday life:
- Set reminders
- Floss at the same time each day
- Leave floss in different spots around the house
- Entertain yourself while flossing
The Dentist’s Recommendation: Flossing as Part of Your Daily Routine
Flossing is an essential part of maintaining good oral hygiene. It complements brushing by removing plaque and food particles between the teeth and the gumline. Flossing twice a day or after meals is recommended to ensure optimal dental health. By incorporating regular flossing into your dental routine, you can expect easier dental checkups and cleanings and better overall dental and physical health. Flossing helps prevent gum disease, cavities, and bad breath while promoting healthy gums and a beautiful smile.
Southpoint Quality Dental Cares About Your Dental Health
Whether you are just starting your flossing journey or looking to take it to the next level, the experts at Southpoint Quality Dental are here to help you keep your gums healthy and happy. To learn more about gum health and the importance of flossing regularly, contact our office or request an appointment today!