When good oral health, you know the routines that keep your smile healthy. Brushing your teeth is only one of them. There’s a critical companion to brushing that often gets overlooked: flossing. Although brushing cleans the surfaces of your teeth, flossing gets in the spaces between them and near the gumline. We wanted to discuss why you need to floss every day for your dental health:

1. Reach Where Your Toothbrush Can’t 

No matter how thoroughly you brush your teeth, there are areas that your toothbrush simply can’t reach. The spaces between your teeth and the areas around your gumline can accumulate bacteria and food particles. Neglected, this can lead to plaque buildup, cavities, and gum disease. Flossing regularly means you’re cleaning those hard-to-reach places and preventing possible oral health issues. 

2. Prevent Gum Disease 

Gum disease is a preventable but serious oral health issue that affects the gums and, eventually, the bones supporting the teeth. Flossing plays an important part in keeping gum infections at bay. With flossing, you can get near and around your gumline, removing the bacteria and debris that contribute to gum disease. As a result, you can maintain healthy gums and avoid the progression of the disease.

3. Fight Bad Breath 

The same bacteria that can lead to gum disease and cavities are also responsible for bad breath. Food particles can get trapped between your teeth. As they break down, they release a foul smell. When you floss, you remove these particles and keep your breath fresh. That’s why, if you struggle with bad breath regularly, make sure flossing is part of your routine. 

4. Preserve Tooth Enamel 

Flossing doesn’t just benefit your gums. It can also improve your tooth enamel. Plaque buildup on your teeth can lead to cavities and gum problems. By regularly flossing, you are getting rid of this accumulation to keep your teeth healthy and reduce sensitivity. also helps preserve the health of your tooth enamel. 

5. Save Money 

Neglecting to floss can have consequences beyond your oral health. By staying on top of your oral hygiene routine with a regular flossing habit, you avoid more extensive problems later. You save money as a result.

Flossing is a simple but powerful habit that should be integral to your daily oral hygiene routine. It’s a proactive step that can help you avoid oral health issues and ensure you have a beautiful smile. However, flossing is only one part of the bigger picture of keeping your teeth and gums healthy. You need regular dental checkups too. If you haven’t had yours in the last six months, schedule an appointment with us today.

Call Weddell Dental in Bloomington, MN at 952-679-1365 or ​​schedule online.