Ever skipped your oral hygiene routine because you felt like you didn’t have time for it? We’ve all been there. While missing just once won’t hurt, it becomes a problem if it turns into several missed times. Some people may even skip flossing altogether because they think brushing alone is enough to keep their smile in tip-top shape. Believe it or not, writing off this essential step can wreak havoc on your oral health. Read along to learn a few reasons why flossing is important and should be a part of your daily routine.
Ward Off Tooth Decay
Did you know that cavities aren’t just the result of eating too much sugar? Failing to take proper care of your teeth and gums can also lead to decay. If left untreated, it can cause severe discomfort, infection, and even tooth loss. Using dental floss to clean between your teeth is an excellent way to remove harmful debris that’s hiding in the crevices, preventing decay from starting in those areas.
Brushing Only Gets 60% of Plaque Off Teeth
Around 40% of plaque is in between your teeth, which means flossing is the only way to effectively remove as much of it as possible. Brushing alone is not enough. It’s best to floss within just a few hours of eating before the plaque has a chance to solidify and turn to tartar. By minimizing buildup, you can prevent issues like swollen gums, decay, cavities, and gum disease.
Your Gums Will Stop Bleeding
If your gums bleed, you may be tempted to stop flossing. However, that’s a clear indication that you should floss more often. Doing so will keep the bacteria on your gum line to a minimum, meaning your body won’t send red blood cells to the area to fight the infection. After a few days of flossing daily, the inflammation will go down, and the bleeding should stop.
Lowered Risk of Gum Disease
Not thoroughly cleaning the nooks and crannies in your mouth will make you vulnerable to gum disease. If you’re pregnant, it’s especially important to floss more often because gum disease is associated with prematurity and low birth weight. Therefore, you should make sure your gums are nice and healthy to avoid any complications during birth.
Prevent Bad Breath
One of the most common reasons behind bad breath is poor oral hygiene. Failing to floss regularly allows bacteria to build up between the teeth, producing digestive acids that cause bad breath. Dental floss helps remove the harmful particles hiding in these crevices, helping your mouth feel and smell as fresh as ever.
Next time you consider skipping the floss, you should think about the benefits listed above. By incorporating flossing into your daily routine, you can keep your oral health in optimal condition for a lifetime!
About the Practice
At Westgate Dental Care, we offer state-of-the-art, comprehensive services that are unlike anywhere else. Our team of experts is dedicated to providing quality care that’ll leave you smiling after every appointment. If you’d like to learn more about the benefits of flossing, don’t hesitate to reach out. You can make an appointment via our website or call (847) 577-7171.