Why floss?
Flossing provides care and cleaning to the areas of your teeth that a tooth brush cannot reach. The areas in between your teeth and the small gaps along your gum line are vulnerable to dental problems. This is because food particles can get lodged in between the gaps and a tooth brush alone cannot remove them. Also, these areas are prone to the buildup of plaque which can cause discoloration and staining on your teeth as well cavities. On top of being a health issue, this then becomes a cosmetic issue. Here is a look at why it is important to floss and what can happen when flossing is ignored.
1 Increased cavities:
Without flossing, cavities can start to form in between your teeth where your brush cannot reach. Cavities, or tooth decay, can cause an increase in sensitivity to hot and cold as well as to sweets. Cavities may also start to cause pain when they get too bad. Detecting cavities that form in between teeth can be difficult and may only be found with dental exams at Summit Smiles.
2 Reduce Bacteria and inflammation in your body
Bacteria can start to build up and cause more than gum disease. The presence of bacteria can lead to other conditions that can affect more than just your mouth. These conditions include a risk factor for heart disease and diabetes and pregnancy complications. Tartar is a buildup of plaque that has been left undisturbed for a period of time. Plaque is sticky and soft but once left untreated by regular flossing it becomes hard. At that stage tartar must be removed by a dentist during a dental exam.
3 Bad breath
Flossing can help prevent bad breath. If bacteria and food particles are left in between your teeth it can actually cause really strong bad breath.
4 Cost Effective
Not flossing can cost you a lot of money in the long run with increased cavities leading to more extensive dental problems. Procedures such as root canals are costly and can result in crowns or veneers which add even more to the cost of your dental care.