Are you one of those people who the only time that you floss is during your annual dental checkup? If so, you could be doing a lot more to protect your teeth, gums and overall oral health. Brushing your teeth is definitely number one, but what else can be done to maximize oral health. Flossing is something that dentists always recommend but patients do not partake in enough. Dentists know that you hate flossing, but it does really play a vital role in oral health. Below are a few reasons why you should start flossing in addition to brushing.
- Plaque – or sticky bacteria, generates acid and is common in leading to cavities, irritating the gums and even leading to gum disease. Flossing can loosen and break up to 40% of plaque that is on teeth.
- Age – Believe it or not flossing can help you look younger. Getting rid of plaque and other bacterias helps fight against gum and oral disease. These bacterias are eating away at your beautiful smile, so those who preserve their bones and gums will look better as they age than those who don’t.
- Heart Disease – there is a pretty clear link between gum disease and heart disease, and thus keeping your mouth in the best shape possible is vital to the health of your entire body. If your immune system is not working at its best you are at higher risk for heart disease, stroke and even low birth weight babies.
If you are not flossing once a day or even every few days, you are hurting your future. Start by flossing maybe once every few days, and then slowly transition to everyday, then every time you brush your teeth. It takes 30 seconds, is cheap and has great benefits, so hop on the floss train today!
Max is a marketing assistant for Southern Dental is an office specializing in family dentistry located in Marrero, Louisiana.