A lot of people joke about their flossing habits or their lack thereof. Maybe you already floss regularly or maybe you used to floss daily, but the habit didn’t stick. Maybe you never learned the importance of flossing and therefore never even started the habit in the first place. Flossing is just as important as brushing your teeth when it comes to keeping your smile healthy. The American Dental Association recommends that you should floss at least once a day. The best time to floss (or use a water pik) is usually right before you go to bed to remove any food and plaque buildup from the day. However, if another time of day is better for you, do whatever works so that you floss your teeth at least once a day.
Defend Against Gum Disease
When bacteria from plaque and food remains begin to build up between teeth and under your gums, it can irritate your gum tissue. The bacteria releases acid that can cause inflammation and infection to your gums. Flossing allows for you to keep that bacteria away from your gumline.
Prevent Cavities Between Teeth
Cavities can occur on every surface of your teeth, not just on the top parts that do the most of your chewing. Most toothbrushes do not do the greatest job when it comes to getting in between your teeth, which means that if you are only brushing your teeth – you could be leaving behind bacteria on the surfaces and crevices between your teeth. Flossing is designed to get between these tight spaces to clear away the potentially harmful substances.
Keep Your Breath Fresh
Leaving bacteria and decomposing food particles to sit between teeth and beneath gum tissue can lead to bad breath. The longer it is neglected, the more chronic your bad breath can become. Flossing your smile can help keep your teeth and gums clean and your breath fresh!
Do you floss at least once a day?
Flossing your teeth at least once a day can help you to keep your smile bright and healthy. We proudly help patients from Breaux Bridge, Broussard, Scott, Youngsville, and surrounding communities. To schedule a consultation, contact us at our Lafayette, LA, dentist’s office at 337-237-6453.
