Flossing is often an overlooked part of a regular oral health routine, yet flossing every day is necessary to prevent severe gum disease and the serious health conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease and heart problems that can stem from it being allowed to go untreated.
While you may not enjoy flossing every day, there are many reasons why so many dentists urge patients to do it at least once a day. Dr. Brent Engelberg of AH Smiles in the Chicago suburb of Arlington Heights, IL wants you to know the top 7 reasons to floss every day.
1. Flossing removes cavity-causing bacteria from hard-to-reach places
Were you aware that over 500 different bacteria species live in the mouth? Most of these microscopic flora are harmless, but some of them will cause cavities if not kept in check. Not flossing to remove them puts your oral health at risk.
2. It fights bad breath
When bacteria is allowed to build up between teeth, the digestive acids they produce cause bad breath. Removing the bacteria and leftover food particles they eat from between teeth can prevent bad breath and preserve your gum health.
3. It reduces your risk of gum disease
Bacteria cause cavities, but they can also cause gum disease. What starts out as a little bleeding can turn into severe decay and tooth loss without you even noticing other symptoms. Regularly removing plaque from between teeth is a critical step in keeping gum disease from progressing.
4. Brushing alone only gets 60% of the plaque off of your teeth
Although brushing your teeth is important to your oral health, it cannot remove all the plaque — the clear, sticky substance that forms on your teeth out of saliva and food particles. Around 40% of all plaque that forms is actually between your teeth and cannot be removed by brushing alone. Flossing, or some other form of interdental cleaning, is the only way to remove the plaque from this hard to reach area.
5. Gum disease is directly linked to serious health problems
Gum disease can also negatively affect your health in serious ways. Studies indicate that there is a link between gum disease and Alzheimer’s disease, and it has already been established that it can increase risk of low birth weight in babies and cardiovascular problems. The best way to prevent gum disease is through regular brushing AND flossing.
6. Flossing saves you time, money, and discomfort in the long run
By preventing gum disease, cavities, and bad breath, flossing can help save you money by helping you avoid the need for complex, uncomfortable, and expensive dental procedures. The easiest, cheapest way to prevent dental ailments is with a toothbrush and some dental floss.
7. Your dentist will be proud of you
Your dental team knows when you actually floss and when you don’t! To make sure you score some extra points at your next visit and avoid the flossing lecture, clean between your teeth every day. The effects will be noticeable and helpful to your health.
Expert Dental Care in Arlington Heights, IL
Dr. Engelberg is an experienced dentist in Arlington Heights, IL who offers patients affordable, compassionate dental care in a professional and welcoming environment. To schedule an appointment with our office, call (847) 230-9703 or request your appointment online today!