Did you know that despite dentists recommending people floss daily, the majority of the population never flosses at all?
Having healthy teeth and gums helps you have the best smile possible, avoid pain, and save money on dental work. Yet so many people think saving time on flossing or brushing properly is taking the easy way out.
You can avoid a lot of hassle and teeth problems down the line if you take the time to make flossing a priority now. Keep reading to learn eight reasons why flossing is important.
Brushing your teeth only removes part of the plaque from your teeth. Plaque can get in between your teeth and mix with other things like food and bacteria to cause a black stain between your teeth.
Having an issue like this can harm your confidence in your smile and have negative impacts on your teeth like cavities developing, or teeth sensitivity down the line.
Taking a quick minute to floss helps thoroughly remove the plaque from the areas your toothbrush can't reach and keep your mouth clean and stain-free.
As mentioned above, plaque and other bacteria caused by stuck food pieces between your teeth can irritate and inflame your gums.
Flossing removes these things quickly, so your gums don't have a chance to get impacted. Another way flossing protects your gums is by keeping them used to the act of flossing.
For example, if you go too long in between flosses, your gums aren't used to the impact and will likely bleed and get sore after. On the other hand, regular flossing promotes healthy gums and keeps bleeding gums at bay, particularly during dental cleanings.
When food gets stuck between your teeth, it attracts bacteria and breaks down, which can wear down your enamel and lead to cavities.
Cavities often form between the teeth because this area gets neglected during cleaning. If you're only ever using a toothbrush, food and other things can be between your teeth without you even realizing it.
Before you know it, you'll be experiencing the symptoms of having a cavity and have to spend time and money to get your teeth taken care of. It's always best to avoid needing treatments by keeping up to date with both personal and professional teeth cleaning.
Gingivitis is a mild form of gum disease. Neglecting to floss and take proper care of your teeth can cause the part of your gums that meets the top of your tooth to become irritated and swell.
Eventually, the gums might pull back, or recede, and expose more of the root of your tooth. You will end up experiencing tooth sensitivity and pain.
Something as simple as taking a tip of water might make your teeth hurt.
Flossing and brushing regularly and properly can help prevent this.
If Gingivitis worsens and becomes more serious, it can become Gum Disease.
The inner layer of your gums and bone will pull even further away from your teeth, leaving pockets behind. These pockets can lead to infections and loss of teeth.
Losing your teeth is a severe problem that causes more issues than you might think. Simple things like eating and even talking normally can become difficult. So taking steps to avoid something as serious as gum disease is crucial.
Gum Disease isn't the only way you can end up losing your teeth. Some cavities become so severe removing the tooth is the only option.
Flossing and regular dental visits are the best way for you to monitor your teeth. As you floss, if you notice any blood, irritation, pain, or things that don't look normal, this is your cue to call the dentist.
Flossing allows you to be up close and personal with your teeth, so you know what's going on in your mouth.
Aside from the physical and health benefits of proper dental hygiene, avoiding bad breath is another vital effect flossing can have.
Food getting stuck in between your teeth can cause problems, as we mentioned above, but another problem it can cause is bad breath. This is because the food decays in your mouth and leads to a smell no one will find pleasant.
Bad breath makes many people insecure and can eventually impact your relationships. If you don't already, adding flossing into your daily teeth care routine can help eliminate bad breath and keep your mouth minty fresh.
Most people would say they would appreciate having whiter teeth. One great way to achieve that without outside help is by flossing! For all the reasons mentioned here already, flossing can keep your teeth in overall better health and remove things that will make your teeth appear yellow.
To take your newly brightened smile to the next level, teeth whitening pairs well with regular flossing.
Taking the time to take proper care of your teeth can sometimes feel like a chore. That's why it's essential to remember why flossing is important in the first place.
Keeping the benefits of flossing in mind and the risks of not flossing will help you remember why taking the time to do it is worthwhile!
Preventive care is crucial in preventing serious teeth issues, avoiding expensive procedures, and having white teeth.
Click here to learn more about what preventative care consists of and to schedule your first appointment with us to take the steps to a healthier mouth today.
