We have all had our dentists or dental hygienists ask us about our flossing habits. Most of us sheepishly tell them that, no, we have not been flossing. At this time, our dental hygienist usually will highlight the reasons flossing can benefit our oral health and that we should make it a habit. Most of us view flossing as an extra chore that we need to do and tend to opt out of it. But did you know that it does not matter what time you floss? If you make it a daily habit, you can also benefit from the rewards of flossing.

What Does Flossing Do For Our Oral Health?

Flossing will help you lift and release food and plaque that get stuck in your teeth during the day. Not only will it get rid of debris, but regular flossing can reduce your chances of getting gum disease and bad breath. Food, plaque, and other debris that are left behind after brushing can impact your oral health negatively, causing cavities and other diseases. Therefore, it is important to make flossing a daily habit!

Here are five things that will change your mind about flossing:

5 Reasons Flossing is Important for Dental Hygiene

Flossing does almost half of the work in removing debris, plaque, and bacteria from your teeth

Flossing does around 40% of the work when it comes to cleaning your teeth! Flossing makes sure that you get to clean all five surfaces of every tooth. Without it, you would be missing out on cleaning two of those surfaces. Letting plaque buildup between your teeth leads to swollen gums, tooth decay, cavities and eventually gum disease.

Flossing improves your overall health

When you floss and have good oral health, this reduces the risks of stroke, diabetes, respiratory disease, and heart disease. Because everything in your body is linked, gum health and periodontitis affect other parts of your body. Infections that start in your mouth can spread throughout your body.

Flossing prevents gingivitis

Gingivitis is the first stage of gum disease that causes swelling and bleeding in your mouth. Healthy gums do not bleed when they are brushed or flossed. If you have bleeding gums, that is a sign that you need to brush your teeth and floss more frequently.

Flossing is a cost-effective way to keep your oral health in check

Floss is an inexpensive way to ensure the health of your gums and teeth. We know that flossing more often is a great way to improve your oral health and your dentist can tell right away if you have been flossing regularly.

If you have questions about your oral health or flossing, contact Grand Bend Family Dental today and book an appointment with us. We are always happy to help you on your smile journey.