Why You Need to Floss

3 Reasons Why Flossing is So Important

Oral health is a very important part of living an overall healthy life. Along with brushing at least twice a day and seeing a dentist on a regular basis for check-ups, flossing on a daily or at least regular basis is one of the best preventive measures that can be done to help stop a number of different oral health issues, namely gum disease and tooth decay. Flossing, however, is not a very popular action and studies have shown that almost 30 percent of adults lie to their dentist about flossing and many admitted to wishing to clean the toilet more than floss! Here is why flossing should be a party of your routine.

Flossing Fights Gum Disease

As we eat and drink, plaque builds up along the gum line and flossing helps to remove that plaque buildup. Leaving this plaque unattended can often lead painful inflammation and even bleeding around the gums, which is known as gingivitis. When gingivitis is left unaddressed and untreated, it can lead to a more serious condition known as gum disease – gum disease has been known to attribute to a number of other health issues, both oral and general, and is also responsible for tooth loss, which is why flossing regularly to remove this plaque is so important.

Flossing Fights Bad Breath

We often wouldn’t associate flossing with bad breath but flossing can often help keep stinky breath at bay. Bad breath is most often caused by rotting food that becomes stuck between teeth, which will eventually release foul-smelling odors that cause bad breath. By flossing regularly, it helps to remove this food that is hidden between teeth before it even has the chance to rot and become stinky. Additionally, removing this food can help to prevent the deterioration of the tooth’s enamel.

Flossing Fights Cavities

The food that is trapped between teeth does not only rot and cause smelly breath, it can also lead to tooth decay and the creation of cavities. When food sits on the teeth, the sugars in the food mix with bacteria found in the mouth. The mixture of sugar and bacteria produces acid, which will wear away the tooth’s enamel exposing the sensitive roots and causing tooth decay and cavities. Keeping food off the surface of the teeth is important to help keep the enamel strong and protecting the tooth’s roots.

If you are not flossing regularly, you should probably visit a dentist. If the cost of these visits is overwhelming you, sign up for New Hampshire discount dental plan like Wellness Dental. This plan can help you save as much as 20 percent off all dental visits. For more information, click here.

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