Why Flossing Teeth is Important as Brushing

There are several signs that you’re not a regular at flossing:

• Inflammation Between the Teeth
• Excessive Plaque Between the Teeth
• Bleeding Gums
• Formation of Cavities Between the Teeth
• Cuts and Abrasions on the Gums if You Started Flossing Recently

Some people think that flossing is only necessary if there is food stuck in their teeth, but damage will happen just from the tarter and bacteria that live between your teeth.

5 Reasons Why You Need To Floss

1. A toothbrush will never be able to properly reach between your teeth or the base of the teeth where it meets the gums. Even if your teeth look good on the surface because you brush regularly, having plaque build-up between the teeth can cause cavities and discoloration. These parts of the tooth that cannot be reached by a toothbrush are closer to the root, so cavities that form there may affect the health of the whole tooth more adversely than surface cavities.

2. If you don’t floss regularly, your gums are more likely to bleed. Bleeding gums allow bacteria into your blood stream. The human mouth is full of bacteria, which is why if a human is bit by another human, the wound will never be stitched up. That same type of bacteria lives in your own mouth, and if your gums are bleeding, there is an opening for bacteria to enter your blood vessels.

3. Tartar build-up can lead to gingivitis and later a more serious periodontal disease that may cause loss of teeth. If your dentist tells you that you are starting to get gingivitis, it is often reversible. You just have to get a good cleaning and make oral hygiene a priority. More serious periodontal disease will be harder and more expensive to reverse.

4. You will be less likely to have bad breath. The plaque and bacteria in your mouth is what causes halitosis (bad breath), similar to the way food smells good until it begins growing bacteria. Flossing daily will prevent a build-up of old food and bacteria in your mouth.

5. Flossing can save you money. Cavities, root canals and other oral health issues are expensive to have repaired. Brushing twice daily and flossing every night before you go to bed will prevent these problems, giving you more fun money.

If you’re looking for a family-friendly dental clinic for preventative or cosmetic dentistry services, contact Family SmileCare Center today.