It’s easy to get caught up in a routine of life and forget the seemingly minute details of oral healthcare. Brushing your teeth is something most people accomplish in a day. What is often overlooked is that flossing can have an incredible impact on oral healthcare and, ultimately, on the general dental services you receive throughout your lifetime. There are many benefits to flossing that can create an overall healthier mouth and body that can include more than simply your teeth and gums.
When you eat, the natural bacteria in your mouth creates acids to break down the everyday foods and drinks. When allowed to mix with carbohydrates and sugar, this acid creates plaque along the edges of and in between your teeth. Flossing works to rid your teeth of this build-up as well as hidden food particles, and, as a result, it lowers your risk of tooth decay. Plaque, if left unchecked by flossing and allowed to harden along your gum line and in between your teeth, can lead to tartar build-up. Tartar build-up is what can lead to cavities, a hole in the hard surface of your teeth (enamel). If plaque is removed before it can harden, the chances of cavities and other damage to the enamel of your teeth are much lower than they would have been.
Let Wambaugh Dental help you maintain healthy teeth and gums by calling us at 281.501.7849.
Gingivitis and Other Diseases
The benefits of flossing go beyond removing plaque and food items from between your teeth. While flossing is another step in keeping clean, healthy-looking teeth, not flossing regularly has long-term implications. Periodontitis and other diseases can all stem from plaque that was allowed to remain on the surface of your gums and teeth.
Gingivitis is one disease, though an early implication of more serious dental ailments, that is common for those who don’t floss regularly. Gingivitis is the swelling and inflammation of the gums, which can cause bleeding of the gum tissue, pain, and advanced gum disease if left untreated.
Periodontitis is an example of advanced gum disease that can affect anyone over varying periods of time (months to years). Periodontitis is the leading cause of tooth loss in adults due to many symptoms of the disease itself:
- Receding gum line
- Breakdown of bone and other supporting tissue
- Loose or lost teeth
- Root canal problems
- Tooth Removal
Another disease unrelated to the physical structures of the teeth but connected to the critical habit of flossing is the potential for heart disease. Many experts see a connection between infections of the mouth and blood clots, inflammatory tissue in the cardiovascular system, and diabetes. Untreated infections and diseases of the mouth can mean big problems for your overall health, but flossing is a simple method of preventative dental care to avoid them.
Other Reasons to Floss
There are an abundant number of reasons to floss your teeth! Not only does it keep your dentist and your teeth happy, but it can also affect aspects of your life that you might not have thought of before. Bad breath is one aspect of keeping a clean, healthy mouth that one should consider. Not only do we want our mouths to look clean, sparkling, and healthy, we also want them to smell that way.
Weight loss is another potentially surprising long-term implication of flossing as well. It’s been found that if you brush, floss, and rinse your mouth as suggested, you’re less likely to snack throughout the day. This can lead to a more dedicated mindset, no matter your eating schedule or dietary needs.
Let Wambaugh Dental Provide Preventative Dental Care to You and your Loved Ones
From oral discomfort and aesthetics to long-term health concerns, flossing is preventative dental care that can keep your teeth, mouth, and whole body healthier. Include flossing in your everyday oral healthcare routine to ensure a long-lasting impact on your life. In addition to daily dental care, it is crucial to visit a dentist for regular check-ups. Wambaugh Dental is just a phone call away, so call 281.501.7849 to schedule an appointment.
