Sciota, Pennsylvania
Many people brush their teeth once or twice a day and consider their obligation to their oral health a wrap. But if all you do is brush your teeth, you’re only cleaning about two-thirds of your mouth and leaving yourself at risk for plaque buildup, tooth decay and gum disease.
Flossing only takes a couple of minutes out of your day and can save you a lot of time and money in the long run. Today, our family dentist in Sciota is sharing five compelling reasons you should make flossing a daily priority.
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Remove plaque and tartar buildup
Your toothbrush can’t reach between your teeth or along your gum line as effectively as floss can. If plaque isn’t completely removed from the teeth, it can harden into tartar, a tough substance that can only be removed by a dental professional. Regular flossing prevents tartar buildup, thereby reducing your risk of developing cavities and gum disease.
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Fight bad breath
If you don’t floss, food particles sit between your teeth, attracting harmful bacteria that put off foul-smelling compounds. This process is called putrefaction and can lead to unpleasant odors that linger in your mouth, even after brushing. Over time, these particles and bacteria also cause plaque buildup and gum inflammation, which further contribute to bad breath. Flossing daily helps remove these hidden particles and bacteria before they have a chance to decay and release foul odors.
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Prevent gum disease
Another consequence for leaving food particles and bacteria between the teeth is gum disease. Gingivitis is the first stage of this common oral disease. But left untreated, it can turn into periodontitis, which can lead to tooth loss and other serious health problems. Flossing helps you avoid this by removing harmful substances from between the teeth, reducing inflammation and keeping your gums healthy.
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Protect your overall health
Research shows a strong causal connection between oral and systemic health, particularly when it comes to gum disease, which causes inflammation and allows harmful bacteria to enter your bloodstream. At that point, bacteria and inflammation can travel to other parts of the body, contributing to serious health conditions like heart disease, diabetes and stroke. Flossing daily removes harmful bacteria and reduces inflammation of the gums, significantly decreasing the chances of the bacteria entering your bloodstream.
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Extend the life of your teeth
Daily flossing helps protect the health of your teeth and gums, reducing your risk of tooth decay, gum disease and eventual tooth loss. Healthy gums provide a strong foundation for your teeth, ensuring your smile stays healthy as you age.
Family dentistry in Sciota, PA
If you’re unsure about how to properly floss your teeth, or if you have any questions about your oral health regimen, reach out to us at Chestnuthill Dental. We’d be happy to help you! Call us at (570) 865-7929, or reach out to us online today.
