By Aspen Dental
Flossing Daily Can Protect Your Smile
Did you know that 32% of Americans don’t floss their teeth at all? If you’re part of this percentage, no need to worry! There is always room for improvement. If you need some motivation to get started, here are some benefits to flossing your teeth.
Prevents Cavities
Brushing without flossing misses a large part of your teeth. Your toothbrush is unable to get in the spaces between teeth, and without flossing, plaque begins to accumulate. If not cleaned, plaque becomes tartar, which cannot be removed by brushing or flossing alone. It must be cleaned professionally by a dentist. Tartar also causes cavities, tooth decay, and in extreme cases can cause you to lose teeth.
Whiter Teeth
Consistent flossing can make your smile appear whiter. That’s because flossing removes plaque from between your teeth and gumline. If you want whiter teeth, flossing every day can save you a fortune instead of spending money on whitening treatments.
Fights Bad Breath
Got bad breath? Flossing might be the solution. When you skip flossing, the food stuck between your teeth begins to rot and causes bad breath. Add flossing to your daily routine and you may notice an improvement.
Prevents Gingivitis and Gum Disease
Gingivitis causes red, swollen, and/or irritated gums. Gum disease, or periodontitis, is what happens when gingivitis goes untreated, and is more difficult to treat, but still possible. If you experience bleeding, red, swollen or irritated gums after brushing your teeth, try flossing. At first it may make them bleed more, but symptoms will go away with daily flossing.
Need more reasons to floss? Call us at Aspen Dental!
