The American Dental Association recommends flossing at least once per day, but that is merely the bare minimum. Most dentists would suggest flossing as often as you eat. Not flossing can put your smile at risk for many dental issues that are easily avoidable. Here are 4 reasons you should improve your oral health by flossing every day.
It Will Improve Your Gum Health
Have you noticed that your floss is often a bit bloody after using it? You may think that flossing is causing your gums to bleed, but the truth is that flossing does the exact opposite. When you have bacteria and plaque below your gum line, your body sends blood cells to the area to fight infection. Flossing removes these microbes, resulting in the reduction of bloody dental care sessions.
It Will Strengthen Your Teeth
Not flossing allows plaque and bacteria to build up and wear away at areas between your teeth. Having a cavity between your teeth, also known as an interproximal cavity, is often believed to be worse than having one on another surface of a tooth. Why? Because it often occurs in two teeth rather than just one. Brushing alone can’t remove cavity-causing bacteria from the crevices between teeth; including flossing in your dental care routine will help keep your smile healthier.
It Reduces Tartar Buildup
Plaque can begin to harden within hours of eating. After 48 hours, it may develop into tartar. This new substance, also known as calculus, can be yellow, brown or black and may appear on the surfaces of your teeth or it can lurk below the gum line. Tartar that has built up on your teeth can make it difficult to brush and floss effectively, which leads to tooth decay. Once it is firmly stuck to your teeth, it will need to be removed with by a professional cleaning at your dental office.
It Will Minimize Your Risk of Health Issues
Allowing bacteria to eat away at your enamel can lead to dental infections like abscesses or gum disease. One spot of dental infection can spread to surrounding teeth and cause even more issues, or it can seep into your bloodstream and travel to other areas in your body. Studies have linked heart disease, stroke, diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis and even respiratory disease to gum disease. Flossing helps to keep your gums healthy, reducing your risk of these issues.
Flossing and brushing are crucial to having a healthy mouth. While it is recommended to brush twice a day for two minutes. studies show that the average American only brushes their teeth for a total of 45 to 70 seconds in one day! This is likely why 47 percent of American adults have gum disease. If you’re not sure about the best way to floss your teeth, your dentist or dental hygienist can help.
About the Practice
At Artistry Smile Center, patients are the most important people in the practice. Their team of dentists, Drs. Angela Courtney and Christy Cox, is dedicated to providing every patient with top-quality dental care in a soothing, relaxing environment. The services offered range from general dentistry to cosmetic and restorative dentistry. If you are located in the Arlington area and you’re ready to get your dental health back on track, visit the website or contact the office at (614) 451-7393 to schedule an appointment today.