A recent study claimed that flossing isn’t beneficial to your health. This couldn’t be further from the truth. Flossing your teeth is a crucial step in your dental hygiene process. Every time you go to the dentist for a routine cleaning, you are usually questioned about the frequency of your flossing. Brushing your teeth twice a day is definitely beneficial, but a toothbrush only cleans the outer surfaces and tops of your teeth. Floss, on the other hand, is able in clean out the spaces between your teeth and gums and get to the spots that your toothbrush and mouthwash can’t reach. Mouthwash does indeed kill the bacterium that forms plaque, but it doesn’t remove the tartar and pieces of food that can get stuck in tight places.
The gum line benefits most from flossing. Tartar and plaque buildup at the gum line can lead to gingivitis, which are red, swollen gums that eventually may lead to gum disease if left untreated. More serious cases can lead to periodontitis—a severe form of gum disease that causes severe inflammation and eventual tooth and/or bone loss. Flossing daily can prevent these tooth and gum diseases.
Not only does flossing prevent diseases of the mouth, but it can also help prevent other diseases, such as heart disease or diabetes. Research has shown that bacteria associated with an unhealthy mouth can also do harm to the rest of the body. According to the Center of Disease Control, heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States. So, not only does flossing help your gums and teeth, but it is also beneficial to other organs in your body. Some people believe you should floss after you brush, and some believe that you should floss before you brush. As long as you floss regularly, the benefit is the same.
Flossing on a daily basis will promote a healthy mouth and gums, as well as a healthy body. Flossing is a daily routine that you should not skip!
You shouldn’t skip your regular cleanings either. Contact Huntingdon Valley Dental Arts today to schedule an appointment with Dr. Zola Makrauer.