Most people aren’t aware of the fact that there are lots of bacteria and other microorganisms found in our oral cavity. No matter how well you take care of your teeth, the risk of bacteria and other microorganisms getting stuck between them is always there. It is especially true if you do not take care of your teeth by controlling your diet, following dental tips, and performing at-home dental care processes like brushing and flossing.
Your oral health is greatly influenced by how frequently you floss. Plaque can accumulate between your teeth and the gum line if you neglect to floss. Your risk of gum disease and tooth sensitivity could eventually rise because of this. Therefore, you should floss to treat sensitive gums and maintain overall health.
For tartar removal and the deletion of debris from places that a toothbrush can’t reach, interdental cleaners like floss are essential.
So, how often should you floss? To get plaque and bacteria out of the spaces between your teeth, floss at least once a day. It will lessen the likelihood of oral conditions like tooth decay and dental erosive disorders.
You can enjoy several benefits of flossing every night. You may prevent tooth decay and periodontitis and preserve your dental health using a good dental floss pick to remove food particles, plaque, and other foreign things from your mouth.
Let’s explore the benefits in greater detail:
Removes Plaque
Plaque is a whitish, sticky substance that builds up on your teeth, between tooth spaces, and along the gum line. Plaque shouldn’t stay in your mouth for long, even if it can be hard to notice.
When germs in your mouth combine with starchy or sugary meals and beverages, plaque builds on and around your teeth. These microorganisms can release acids that destroy your tooth enamel. When these acids aren’t eliminated by brushing and flossing, tartar and cavities may eventually form. It increases your risk of experiencing gum disease.
Regular flossing can aid in removing plaque that has developed between your teeth and food particles from the area surrounding your teeth.
Decreases the Chances of Cavities
Cavities, which occur from tooth decay, are small openings or holes in the enamel, the hard outer layer of your teeth. Even while this procedure takes time, your chance of getting a cavity increases the more plaque you have on your teeth’s enamel.
By removing plaque accumulation and food fragments that are hidden between your teeth daily, can help prevent tooth decay.
Reduces the Risk of Gum Disease
Your teeth may become loose and lose their bone support because of gum diseases. You can lessen your risk of gum disease by brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing once a day. Every six months, your dentist should do a professional cleaning to maintain the health of your gums.
Reduces Bad Breath
It’s common to have bad breath. Food that gets stuck between your teeth begins to rot over time. You risk having bad breath if you don’t get rid of the food particles. However, one of the techniques you can employ to avoid bad breath and preserve your overall dental health is flossing.
Greater Efficiency Than Brushing Only
It is clear why flossing is important when you consider that when you only brush and skip flossing, around 35% of the surfaces of your teeth remain uncleaned. Dental floss, as opposed to a toothbrush, can remove food particles and bacteria that become stuck in the narrow gaps between your teeth and gums.
Final Thoughts
It is never too late to start a daily flossing routine. If you’re unclear about how to floss back teeth or want to ensure the habit sticks, ask your dentist for more advice and help. Your dentist will provide a detailed guide on flossing vs. not flossing and some crucial dental tips to follow at home.