Is Flossing Really Necessary?

Studies conducted by the American Dental Association have revealed that as few as 10% of Americans floss daily. How much are you flossing? Do you value the importance of this dental hygiene task at all? While flossing isn’t as mainstream as brushing, it plays a critical role in keeping your smile healthy and strong.

At Green Meadow Dental, we strongly encourage flossing for the benefit of both your oral health and body health. It is our job to promote the most effective dental hygiene tools that reduce dental complications such as tooth decay and gum disease as much as possible. In doing so, we believe that flossing is an undeniable strategy in preventing these two prevalent dental issues.

We know that flossing reaches areas of your mouth that a toothbrush simply cannot get to. In result, when you skip flossing, you are essentially neglecting up to 35% of your tooth’s surface, as well as the area below the gum line where bacteria likes to accumulate.

A Weapon Against Gum Disease

Perhaps the biggest danger for patients who think flossing is not necessary is the increased risk for gum disease. Flossing cleans bacteria-containing plaque between teeth and below the gum line. This substance naturally builds up in our mouths when we eat and drink throughout the day. However, it needs to be removed every 24 hours to avoid threats to your oral health. If it’s left alone, the gums can become irritated, inflamed and infected. At this point, early gum disease has set in.

What is the risk of untreated gum disease? Gum disease is not only the leading cause of tooth loss, but it also carries serious consequences beyond your oral health. Gum disease has been linked to stroke, heart disease, diabetes and premature birth. Flossing is one of the strongest weapons against the overgrowth of bacteria-filled plaque that causes gum disease in the first place.

Choose a Flossing Method that Works for You

Considering that nearly half of the American population suffers from some degree of gum disease, and periodontal disease is linked to serious medical conditions, why wouldn’t you take the extra few minutes and floss each day? There are a variety of flossing options available today, ranging from handheld flossers, flavored floss and water flossers. The right floss for you is the one that you will actually use!

Contact Green Meadow Dental for expert advice on how you can keep your mouth in top condition in between dental visits.