Most people will attest that when it comes to dental care, flossing does not get nearly as much attention as brushing. However, what most fail to realize is that flossing is not only important, but it may be even more beneficial than brushing.
Flossing Prevents Gum Disease and Dental Decay
People usually fall into two groups: those who are prone to developing cavities and those who are prone to developing gum disease. If you fall in either category, flossing is the surest way to protect both your gums and your teeth. When you floss, you clear your mouth from the damaging bacteria and plaque that will build up otherwise. By clearing your mouth from these substances, you protect your teeth from cavities and your gums from disease. The only caveat when flossing is to actually do it right. Otherwise, you may not enjoy all of the benefits that you should be getting.
Prevent Tartar Buildup
While plaque is bad enough, tartar is a step up from the sticky and gooey substance that covers your teeth. Tartar is what results from plaque that has built up and hardened over time. When tartar develops on your teeth, your gums not only become inflamed, but tooth decay and cavities develop more easily. To remove tartar, you need to visit a dental professional since your own toothbrush and floss won’t be able to remove it. To help reduce the need for frequent dental visits, you can prevent tartar build up simply by flossing every day. The floss will clear away the plaque between the teeth, thus preventing tartar.
Halitosis No More
Halitosis, also known as bad breath, is caused by food, bacteria, and plaque that is lodged between the teeth. As food particles become lodged between your teeth, the food begins to deteriorate. The deterioration is a leading cause of bad breath because the food particles emit unpleasant odors. Flossing can prevent this problem by clearing away the food particles that will rot. As a result, your mouth will be clean, clear, and odor free.
Keep Your Bloodstream Clean
A few studies show that men who have periodontal disease are at a greater risk of developing heart disease. This is because the bacteria from the mouth is absorbed into the bloodstream and moves to the organs, increasing the risk of heart disease and damage to the body’s important organs.
Fewer Visits to the Dentist
Visiting the dentist isn’t only inconvenient, but it can be quite costly if you require extensive dental work. One of the easiest ways to protect your wallet and your teeth is to floss frequently. Flossing frequently will prevent the most common dental issues and keep your teeth clean for every single visit which at the end of the day, gives you much more peace of mind.
Overall, taking your dental health seriously and flossing everyday has immense benefits not only for your teeth, but also for your wallet and the time spent at the dentist. The next time you brush, get the floss out and start flossing.