Do I Need Dental Floss?

We know that at the end of a long day, flossing your teeth may be the last thing you want to do.  On the other hand, when you are rushing to get ready for work or school in the morning, it may also be the last thing on your mind.  However, although flossing seems like an unnecessary daily chore, it is actually an essential part of your overall health.  Just like washing your hands and removing bacteria from your hair skin in the shower, flossing is a part of a daily hygiene routine.  It is impossible to reach each and every crevasse of your mouth, even with the world’s best electric toothbrush.  Dentists worldwide agree that flossing is the only foolproof way to remove all of that bacteria from the mouth and maintain oral health.

Four Reasons To Floss

There are four main reasons to floss regularly.  Firstly, plaque can build up and attach the teeth and oral structures extremely quickly.  This means that your lunch can already be eating away at your tooth enamel and gums by dinnertime.  These particles harden over time, becoming even more difficult to remove from your teeth and gums.

Secondly, for those who experience gum sensitivity or bleeding during regular brushing, regular flossing will remove this discomfort.  It is important to alert your dentist at the very first signs of gum inflammation or bleeding as well.  The blood is likely going to the area to fight any infections which may be brewing, so stop those germs right in their tracks, in real time!

Third is a simple fact: your overall health with improve.  Maintaining your oral health will improve many body systems and decrease your chances of developing infections.  It will also reduce your risk of developing further complications from cardiac disease, diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis and autoimmune diseases.

Lastly, your tooth enamel will remain strong and healthy.  Majority of us know how unpleasant and uncomfortable it can be to have a cavity.  If you regularly take care of the bacteria that builds up by flossing, it will greatly reduce your chances of needing invasive dental procedures down the road.  It will also save you an exorbitant amount of time and money spent on medical bills!