According to statistics, only 12 percent of people floss their teeth every day. This indicates there are too many people who do not understand the benefits of flossing and who are not aware of the harmful effects that not flossing can have on both the teeth and the gums. There are many benefits that brushing and flossing have over brushing alone.
Advantages of Flossing
If you only brush your teeth, they will not be completely clean. Small food particles that you can’t even see stay trapped between your teeth. Flossing is the best way to get rid of these as well as remove the plaque that builds up between the teeth--a toothbrush just can’t get into those small spaces! Getting rid of food particles and plaque keeps tartar from forming (which only your dentist or hygienist can remove).
Most people are also unaware that flossing actually may lower the chances of a heart attack. There is a relationship between gum disease and heart attacks, therefore, flossing regularly helps to prevent gum disease.
Harmful Effects of Not Flossing
The tartar that builds up when the teeth aren’t flossed is full of bacteria that can cause damage to your gums and trigger swelling. This is a condition called gingivitis. Gingivitis can lead to bone resorption, which often results in tooth loss.
If you don’t floss, you may notice that your gums are prone to bleeding when you brush. A study described in the American Journal of Periodontology involved 51 pairs of twins. One twin of each pair was in a group that brushed only and the second group of twins brushed and flossed. The results of the study showed that the second group had 38 percent fewer instances of bleeding gums.
Daily flossing along with brushing results in a marked difference in total oral health...don’t let the toothbrush be the only dental supply you keep in your home!
Don't wait on your oral health--schedule an appointment with Dr. Alfred Huber of Reserve Dental today! Call the office at 561-852-7773.
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