How many times has your dentist reminded you to floss?
Sure, you’ve heard it a million times. But is flossing important, or is it just something dentists say?
Only 30% of people say they floss daily. Meanwhile, 32% admit to never flossing.
Where do you fall on the spectrum? Do you need to step up your flossing game?
If you want to keep your natural smile as long as possible, you need a solid oral hygiene routine. Flossing does things that brushing and using mouthwash can’t do for your teeth.
But flossing isn’t just about health. It can make your smile look (and smell) better. That gives you more reasons to smile.
Still not convinced you should reach for the floss on a daily basis? Read on to learn about flossing benefits.
1) Reach Places Your Toothbrush Can’t
Brushing your teeth for at least two minutes two times a day cleans the visible surfaces. But the bristles can’t reach between the teeth.
Flossing removes the plaque on those surfaces. Floss handles about 40% of plaque removal. That’s a lot of plaque left behind if you don’t floss.
What’s wrong with leaving plaque on your teeth?
First, it turns to tartar. You need a dentist to remove it. It can also cause cavities and gum issues.
2) Improve Your Smile
Flashing your pearly whites comes naturally when your teeth look clean and bright. Flossing improves the look of your teeth by removing food particles that get stuck in the gaps.
Removing plaque before it turns to tartar helps your teeth look whiter. As plaque builds, it becomes noticeable on your teeth.
You’ll feel more confident in your smile when you keep your teeth clean and healthy.
3) Prevent Gum Disease
Periodontal disease affects 47.2% of adults 30 and older. At age 65, that number increases to 70.1%.
It starts with swollen, red gums. If not treated, gum disease can cause bone loss and tooth loss.
Getting rid of plaque between your teeth cuts down on your risk of periodontal disease.
4) Prevent Other Diseases
Think flossing is only about your oral health? Preventing gum disease may prevent other health issues.
Periodontal disease appears to increase risks of heart disease, diabetes, respiratory disease, and other serious health conditions. Flossing regularly may help you stay healthier.
If you’re an expectant mother, taking care of your teeth is beneficial for your baby, too. Pregnant women with gum disease may be at a higher risk for premature birth and low birth weight.
5) Save Money on Dental Care
When answering, “Is flossing important,” you often come up with answers related to health. But the simple habit can help your finances, too.
Flossing is part of your preventative oral care routine. It cuts down on your risks of cavities and gum disease. It’s much cheaper to stock up on floss than it is to pay dental bills for those treatments.
6) Fight Bad Breath
Battle bad breath by removing food particles and bacteria that can cause odor. When paired with regular brushing, flossing can help you minimize breath issues. Fresh breath can boost your confidence in social situations.
7) Spot Other Oral Issues
When you open wide to floss, you get a clear look inside your mouth. Do you notice anything different about your mouth, gums, teeth, or tongue?
Your mouth sometimes shows signs of disease, including cancer and HIV/AIDS. Talk to your dentist about any lesions, swelling, or redness you notice while you floss.
Is Flossing Important?
Flossing, brushing, and regular dental checkups are all part of a solid oral care routine. Is flossing important? Yes, especially when combined with brushing.
Are you looking for a dental care team you can trust? Our friendly dental staff is ready to help you with all your dental care needs.
Schedule an appointment today for a checkup to help keep your teeth and gums healthy.
