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If you visit your dentist for a cleaning every six months, you likely sit through a lecture about the benefits of flossing, especially if there is evidence that you haven’t been doing it. However, this advice likely goes unheeded altogether if you skip dental checkups.
America’s first nationally recognized analysis to determine how many individuals floss discovered that daily flossers constitute approximately 30% of the population. Many dentists opine that flossing may not be popular because it provides no immediate gratification. Nevertheless, it remains one of the most fundamental practices for optimum dental care. Here are some important benefits of flossing your teeth daily.
Helps Eliminate Plaque
Plaque is a thin, colorless, and sticky film that accumulates between and around your teeth as well as along your gumline. It forms on and all over your teeth when your mouth’s bacteria mix with sugary and starchy food and drinks. These bacteria break down carbohydrates by releasing acids. If you don’t floss and brush regularly, the acids, carbohydrates, and acids will unite to form plaque films on your teeth and gum line. Additionally, bacteria in plaque release acids that can destroy your tooth enamel. However, you can remove most of these acids through flossing and brushing.
Furthermore, unremoved plaque can harden into tartar, which 70% of adults are estimated to have. Tartar is much more challenging to remove than plague, and many people will have to see a periodontal or another dental specialist. Know that most dentists like this, as well as standard practitioners, use the techniques and tools that will give the best results for each patient’s specific needs. There are also varying costs, depending on what you need to be done and how quickly. However, regular flossing will remove particles between and around your teeth, reducing your risk of getting tartar in the first place and developing gum disease.
It Helps Prevent Gum Disease
Gingivitis is a common but mild gum disease that causes redness, swelling, and irritation of your gingiva- the gum around the base of your teeth. It is an early sign of gum disease and can progress to periodontitis- a more serious and destructive type of gum disease if untreated. Periodontitis can cause receding gums, loose teeth, and an inflammatory response throughout your body.
Research on flossing’s role in keeping gum disease at bay is quite clear, so it is no surprise that all dentists and hygienists recommend it. Flossing dislodges food particles in hard-to-reach crevices between your teeth and under the gumline.
Boosts Heart Health
The connection between poor oral health and heart issues certainly ranks among the most surprising scientific observations in recent years. Indeed, study after study has discovered that individuals with poor oral health, like tooth loss or gum disease, are more at risk of cardiovascular problems like strokes and heart attacks than those with great oral health.
One working theory that explains the link between poor dental health and heart disease is that the bacteria that infect the gums and cause periodontitis and gingivitis can travel to other blood vessels and cause inflammation and tiny blood clots. Consequently, it is critical to take excellent care of your teeth and gums through flossing, brushing, and regular cleanings to prevent oral and heart disease.
**** This post is strictly informational and is not meant to replace the advice of your healthcare provider. Women’s lifelink, its owners, administrators, contributors, affiliates, vendors, authors, and editors do not claim that this information will diagnose, treat, or improve any condition or disease.
