Omni Dental Group

5 Reasons to Floss Daily

Flossing is a commonly overlooked aspect of maintaining good oral health. Unfortunately, it is also quite important in preventing serious complications or infections, and is one of the best things you can do to keep your mouth healthy and happy for years to come.

For anybody skipping this essential step, here are the top fine reasons why you should be flossing daily:

1. Prevent periodontitis
Flossing is by far the most beneficial technique you can use to prevent serious gum disease. When food debris gets caught in between teeth or in pockets between the teeth and gums, it begins to break down and get attacked by the bacteria in your mouth. This causes the body to initiate an immune response which can lead to a number of complications. Flossing removes the debris that toothbrushes can’t get to in order to help keep the mouth health and free of leftover food.


2. Remove buildup of tartar
Removing tartar from around the teeth is crucial to preventing gingivitis and other inflammations, but brushing alone cannot do it. This is why flossing was invented, to get into the small spaces between teeth that your brush cannot reach.


3. Maintain general health
Your dental health is an important aspect of your overall health, and the bacteria that may form in an unhealthy mouth can have serious impacts on several other bodily systems leading to cardiovascular disease, respiratory disease, and diabetes.


4. Have a whiter smile
Flossing regularly can help remove stains before they set, keeping your teeth whiter and preventing damage to your enamel.


5. Prevent bad breath
Food particles that get caught in the mouth and begin to break down are the most common cause of bad breath so clean your mouth out properly if you want to avoid the embarrassment of stinky breath.

Preventing dental diseases and cavities is much easier and more cost effective than relying on treatments once damage has already occurred, and the best way to prevent damage is to floss every single day before bed.

To floss effectively, use a piece of floss about 15-18” long. Slide it between the teeth and wrap around partway, moving it up and down against the curves. If your gums bleed during flossing, that is generally a sign that they are inflamed due to plaque buildup. If it continues to happen after two weeks of flossing regularly, it is a good idea to visit your dentist and get a professional cleaning if required.