People often overlook flossing in their daily oral health routine, dismissing it as a hassle and not really necessary. However, flossing daily can be the key to preventing serious health conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease, diabetes and heart problems — not to mention oral health concerns like severe gum disease.
While many of us may not like to floss every day, there are many reasons why so many dentists urge their patients to do it at least once daily. Drs. Sara and John Gotwalt of Lititz, PA want you to know the top 7 reasons to floss every day.
1. Flossing removes cavity-causing bacteria from hard-to-reach places
It is a little-known fact that over 500 different species of bacteria live in the average human mouth? Most of these bacteria are harmless, but many of them can cause cavities. Brushing alone cannot prevent all cavities as bacteria living between your teeth where your brush can’t reach can cause cavities there, putting your oral health at risk.
2. It reduces your risk of gum disease
Not only does this bacteria cause cavities, it can also lead to the development of gum disease. What begins as a little bleeding from your gums can actually progress to severe decay and result in tooth loss without you even noticing other symptoms. Removing plaque from between teeth by flossing regularly is an important step in preventing gum disease from getting out of control.
3. Gum disease is directly linked to serious health problems
Gum disease can also negatively affect your health in serious ways. New studies are finding links between gum disease and Alzheimer’s disease, and it has already been established that it’s linked to low birth weight in babies and cardiovascular problems. The best way to prevent gum disease is through regular brushing and flossing.
4. Brushing alone only gets 60% of the plaque off of your teeth
While brushing is important to your oral health, almost half of the plaque in your mouth cannot be removed by brushing alone. Around 40% of your total plaque at any given time is actually hidden between teeth and cannot be reached by your brush. Flossing, or some other means of interdental cleaning, is the only way to remove plaque from between teeth.
5. Flossing saves you money in the long run
Preventing gum disease and cavities through flossing can save you money by eliminating your need for complex, uncomfortable, and expensive dental procedures. The easiest, cheapest way to prevent the oral health problems that lead to major dental work is with a toothbrush and some dental floss.
6. It prevents bad breath
When bacteria is allowed to build up between teeth, the acids they produce cause bad breath. Removing the bacteria and the leftover food particles they feed upon from between your teeth will prevent bad breath and preserve the health of your gums.
7. Your dentist will be proud of you
Your hygienist can tell when you actually floss and when you don’t! To make sure you score some extra points at your next visit to the dentist and avoid a lecture about the benefits of flossing, make sure you clean between your teeth every day. The effects will be noticeable.
Expert Dental Care in Lititz, PA
Both Drs. Gotwal are skilled and professional dentists in Lititz who offer patients affordable, compassionate dental care in a professional and welcoming environment. To schedule an appointment with our office, call 717-220-4651 or request your appointment online today!