Most of us have heard our dentist say it: “Don’t forget to floss.” And if you are like many Canadians, you may nod courteously and vow to do better, even though flossing does not necessarily become part of your everyday habits. The reality is that flossing daily is not something that most individuals take seriously enough, and the benefits it has extend well beyond a whiter smile.
Why Brushing Alone is not Enough
Daily brushing your teeth is a good step, but your toothbrush will not be able to brush the tight spaces that exist between your teeth. Food and plaque accumulate in such areas and, unless removed, may cause gum issues and cavities. Flossing works out those tight spots that you can’t reach with brushing your teeth, because your daily routine does wonders for your oral hygiene.
Gum Health is Connected to Overall Health
Healthy gums are not merely about not bleeding during brushing. Studies at the national and international levels indicate that there is a correlation between periodontal disease and other illnesses such as heart disease and diabetes. Flossing can decrease swelling in your mouth and reduce the likelihood of developing larger health problems in the future.
It Saves Money and Stress
Flossing is like a small daily investment. A pack of dental floss can be purchased for a few dollars, whereas fillings, root canals, and gum treatments can cost a significant amount in a short time. With healthy teeth and gums, through regular flossing, you will save yourself an expensive visit to the dentist in the future.
It Makes your Smile Feel Fresh
One of the fastest methods for the mouth to feel clean is through the process of flossing. Bad breath is not the only problem with food particles that lodge between your teeth, as it is also harmful to your health. Flossing can also be included in your daily routine, and it helps keep your smile clean, which gives you the confidence to talk to anyone you’re close to.
More Impact than you Thought
According to Health Canada’s oral health information, daily flossing helps remove plaque in places brushing alone can’t reach. Unremovable plaque also contributes to gum infections. It is not only crucial to keep your mouth healthy, but also healthy gums are associated with such things as diabetes and respiratory disease.
A meta-analysis (that’s a study of many studies) looked at flossing or other interdental cleaning (like brushes between teeth) and found that people who floss have a modestly lower prevalence of periodontitis (gum disease) than those who do not.
A recent article in Time indicated that poor or a lack of flossing has been linked to an increased risk of death, as good flossing is associated with a reduced risk of gum disease.
Getting into the Habit
If flossing sounds like a burden, start small. Start by flossing only one area of your mouth, and as it becomes a routine, add another area each day. Having floss at the workplace or even at the car is something that helps many Canadians to remain consistent.
The Bottom Line
Flossing every day may seem like a minor change, but it has a significant impact on both your oral and overall health. It stops cavities, brings your gums safety, costs less, and gives you a new smile. When you feel like avoiding it next time, bear in mind that two minutes with a piece of floss is not as invaluable as you may believe.
