Importance of Routine Flossing

Your tooth has five surfaces. When you brush only, you reach only three of these surfaces. Flossing helps you clean these other two surfaces. Many people brush their teeth twice daily, but very few of them floss as often.

Flossing is an important oral hygiene practice that dislodges food stuck between your teeth. It helps reduce the number of bacteria in your mouth. When bacteria in your mouth decreases, so does the plaque. Plaque is the sticky film that forms on your teeth and causes cavities and gum disease.

It is important to not only brush your teeth but also to floss. When you floss, make sure to do so properly. Otherwise, you can damage your gums and teeth. So, what is the importance of routine flossing?

Protects Your Gums

Bacteria and plaque accumulate between teeth when you do not floss and irritate the gums. With time, this results in gum disease. The gums become red and bleed when you brush. If you do not treat your gums, it may develop into periodontitis, a serious infection.

Protects Your Teeth

Periodontitis can cause your gums to pull away from your teeth. The teeth then lose bone support and have more exposure to the buildup of bacteria. They then become loose, and the buildup of bacteria results in tooth decay and cavities.

Gets Rid of Plaque

Regular flossing removes food particles that hide between your teeth. If you do not remove these food particles, bacteria feed on them and form plaque. Plaque is a colorless, sticky film, making it difficult to see. When it forms between your teeth, it is even more difficult to see and reach.

The buildup of plaque can harden and form tartar that collects along your gumline. It puts you at risk of developing gum disease and cavities, and you may eventually lose your teeth.

Reduces Bad Breath

Flossing helps keep your breath fresh and prevents halitosis. Halitosis or bad breath develops when food accumulates between your teeth. As it slowly starts to decay, it causes bad breath. Flossing dislodges these food particles and makes it easier to remove them when you brush.

Protects You From Other Diseases

Bacteria in an unhealthy mouth can harm the rest of your body. When gingivitis enters your bloodstream, it can travel to other parts of your body and cause complications. Therefore, good oral health is good not just for your teeth and gums but also for your whole body.

Flossing and brushing your teeth reduces your chances of heart disease, respiratory illnesses, and diabetes. Research shows that people with high standards of oral hygiene reduce their risk of heart failure and atrial fibrillation.

Reduces Temptation to Snack

Flossing reduces the temptation to snack, especially before bedtime. It will also help you maintain a healthy diet and lifestyle. Since it is hard to floss snacks from your teeth, you will more likely prefer fruits and vegetables. The thought of flossing those snacks will help you eat healthily.

For more information on flossing and oral hygiene, visit Today’s Family Dental at our offices in Tampa and Lutz, Florida. You can also call (813) 212-8700 to schedule an appointment today.