Why Is Flossing So Important?

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The way you care for your teeth and gums at home has a huge impact on your overall oral health. Flossing helps you maintain beautiful teeth and a healthy smile . Keep reading to find out how:

Young woman flossing her teeth

Flossing makes brushing more effective
Although brushing your teeth is an essential aspect of your oral hygiene routine, it is not as effective on its own as it is when you combine it with flossing. Brushing your teeth helps you dislodge food, bacteria, and plaque from the surfaces of your teeth. Flossing helps you get rid of the plaque that might be between your teeth and gums. A toothbrush cannot reach these crevices, but the floss can. This helps reduce your risk for tooth decay and periodontal disease. Combining brushing with flossing is also a great way to keep your teeth cleaner so they look their best. Silk floss was the first type of floss that was introduced in 1815 by a dentist in New Orleans named Levi Spear Parmly. Johnson & Johnson Corporation introduced the first dental floss that resembles the floss we use today.

Flossing prevents oral health issues before they happen
If you floss on a daily basis, you can significantly reduce your risk for certain oral health issues that might end up costing you a lot of money. When you properly care for your teeth, you do not have to spend as much money on  restorative dentistry . Instead of waiting for your next dental appointment to ensure that your teeth and gums are clean, you can use floss to make sure that they are.

Flossing can help you prevent other diseases
Infections in the mouth can increase your risk for other health problems in different areas of the body. People with periodontal disease have a higher risk of developing heart disease, diabetes, and breathing problems. Simply using floss each day can help you protect your overall health and reduce your risk for certain diseases. Right now, in the US only 10%-40% of people floss on a daily basis although it is recommended for everyone to floss at least once a day.

At University Associates in Dentistry, we want to give you every tool to  help you get the healthiest teeth and gums . From deep cleanings to root canal therapy, we work hard to prevent oral issues before they happen. To learn more about our services or to schedule your next appointment, visit us online or call (888) 481-6598.

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