Flossing is essential to maintaining good oral hygiene, yet many people neglect this crucial step in their dental routine. While brushing is important for cleaning the surfaces of your teeth, flossing reaches the areas between your teeth and along the gumline where your toothbrush can’t reach.
If you’re not flossing regularly, you’re leaving harmful bacteria to thrive in these hard-to-reach areas, leading to a host of dental problems.
Risks of Not Flossing
One of the biggest risks of not flossing is the development of gum disease. When bacteria build up between the teeth and gums, it can lead to inflammation, known as gingivitis.
Gingivitis can cause swollen, tender gums that bleed when brushing or flossing. If left untreated, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis, a more severe form of gum disease that can lead to tooth loss.
Not flossing can also lead to bad breath. When food particles and bacteria are left between the teeth, they can produce an unpleasant odor. This can be embarrassing and make social situations uncomfortable.
Another consequence of not flossing is the buildup of plaque and tartar. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that forms on your teeth throughout the day. If it’s not removed, it can harden into tartar, a substance that a dental professional can only remove. Tartar buildup can cause tooth discoloration, cavities, and gum disease.
In addition to these problems, not flossing can also lead to tooth decay. When bacteria are left to thrive between the teeth, they can produce acid that eats away at the enamel, the protective layer outside your teeth. Over time, this can lead to cavities, which can be painful and require dental treatment.
Avoiding Dental Problems
So, how can you prevent these dental problems? Flossing is the key. By flossing once daily, you can remove the bacteria and food particles left between your teeth and along the gumline. This will reduce your risk of gum disease, tooth decay, and bad breath.
If you’re unsure how to floss properly, ask your dentist or dental hygienist for guidance. They can show you the proper technique and recommend the best type of floss for your teeth. Several types of floss are available, including waxed, unwaxed, flavored, and unflavored. Choose the one that works best for you and your teeth.
In addition to flossing, it’s important to maintain good oral hygiene habits, such as brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, using mouthwash, and visiting your dentist regularly for cleanings and checkups. A healthy diet low in sugar and calcium and other essential nutrients can also help keep your teeth and gums healthy.
If you’re still having trouble flossing, there are other options available. Water flossers, also known as oral irrigators, use a stream of water to clean between your teeth and along the gumline. Interdental brushes–small brushes that fit between your teeth–can also effectively remove plaque and food particles.