When it comes to dental health habits at home, most adults consider flossing an optional addition to brushing. A research study published in 2018 highlights a survey that shows 20% of Americans never floss while only 41% floss at least once daily.
While flossing is an addition to regular brushing, flossing is not optional. Dentists recommend flossing daily in addition to brushing two times per day.
However, why do you need to floss? In this detailed guide, the team at Linea Clear will help you discover the top health benefits that come with using your floss daily.
5 Health Benefits of Flossing
1. Reduces Bad Breath
Also known as halitosis, bad breath is a very common problem. A research study published in 2017 found that 75.1% of interns and dental students in Pakistan had halitosis. A different research study conducted in China and published in 2019 found that 65.9% of the participating subjects had halitosis.
When food is trapped between the teeth, it decays with time. If this food is not removed, it can easily give you foul-smelling breath.
Flossing helps you remove the trapped food before it starts decaying. This helps you avoid developing bad breath.
2. Eliminates Plaque
The term plaque refers to a colorless and sticky film that collects between and around your teeth, often around the gumline. Although the film may be difficult to see, plaque is not something you want lingering in the mouth for an extended period.
Plaque forms when bacteria in the mouth mix with sugar or starchy drinks and foods. The bacteria release acids to break down the carbs in starchy foods.
If you fail to clean your teeth properly, the acids, bacteria, and carbs may mix to create a plaque film around and on your gumline and teeth. The bacteria in plaque may release acids that attack the tooth enamel. With time, the damage caused by the bacteria can lead to cavities.
What’s more, the plaque may harden, turning into tartar. Tartar collects along the gum line, increasing your risk of developing gum disease.
Regular flossing removes food particles from your teeth. It also clears plaque from between the teeth.
3. Lowers Your Risk of Cavities
Tooth decay matures into cavities. Cavities create a tiny hole or opening on the tooth’s enamel. Although the process does take time, the more plaque you have on your teeth’ enamel, the higher the risk of cavities.
Using your floss between the teeth once every day can eliminate hidden food particles, preventing plaque buildup. This will lower your tooth decay risk.
4. Prevents Gum Disease
The beginning stage of gum disease, gingivitis is a serious condition whose symptoms include gum inflammation. People with gingivitis often bleed when they use a toothbrush.
A research study conducted in 2014 analyzed the severity and prevalence of plaque-induced gingivitis in Saudi. Published in the Saudi Medical Journal, the study found that the prevalence of gingivitis was 100% among the adult subjects. This indicates that gingivitis is more common than most people think.
If gingivitis is not treated, it often leads to another – more serious – infection called periodontitis. Periodontitis is one of the reasons cosmetic dentists recommend gingivitis treatment before recommending invisible teeth aligners.
Periodontitis makes the gums pull away or recede from the teeth. This often makes the teeth lose bone support, which, in turn, makes them loose. If ignored, periodontitis can create an inflammatory response throughout the body.
Brushing your teeth at least 2 times per day and flossing once every day reduces the risk of gum disease. Professional cleaning performed by your dentist every six months also plays a key role in keeping your gums healthy.
5. May Boost Your Heart Health
Maintaining good dental hygiene does not just benefit your gums and teeth. In addition to keeping your teeth white and your mouth fresh, dental hygiene can improve your heart health, too.
A large research study conducted in 2019 determined that subjects with the highest standards of dental hygiene had a lower risk of heart failure and atrial fibrillation. The American Heart Association notes that a connection between heart health and oral health may have a lot to do with a link between your mouth’s health and overall body health.
Go Beyond Flossing: Use Invisible Teeth Aligners to Make Your Smile Stand Out
Flossing will help you freshen up your breath and improve your overall oral health. However, why stop there when you can go ahead and turn your smile into something that imprints in the minds of those you talk to.
Thanks to the specialized orthodontists at Linea Clear, teeth straightening is now easier and more affordable. Using transparent teeth aligners, Linea Clear fixes crooked teeth, allowing people to smile more confidently.
Each orthodontist at Linea Clear boasts decades of experience. Taking advantage of this experience, the company handles the most complicated cases, ensuring each patient gets fitted with the right dental braces.
To start fixing your smile, all you have to do is book your free e-consultation. A Professional orthodontist will be assigned to your case and will work with you until you are fully satisfied with the results.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How many times do I need to floss per day?
The American Dental Association recommends flossing at least once a day. The term “at least” means that you can floss more times – therefore, you can floss 2 to 3 times per day. However, ensure that a day does not end before flossing.
When is the best time to floss?
Dentists recommend flossing before brushing. Flossing helps you loosen plaque and food particles from around teeth and gum. The brushing action that follows helps you remove the particles and plaque that you’ve loosened with flossing.
Which floss should I use?
Standard dental floss is generally available in 2 varieties: unwaxed and waxed. Choosing between the 2 options comes down to personal preference. However, if your teeth are crowded or closer together, a wax coating can make it much easier for you to get into tight spaces.
If you have brides or dental braces, you can try a super floss. Super flosses feature a spongy floss, dental floss threader with a stiff end, and a floss thread – these guarantee good results when someone is wearing dental braces.
Can I reuse my floss?
The American Dental Association does not recommend using a floss strand more than once. A used floss tends to fray, lose effectiveness and may deposit bacteria in your mouth. For this reason, discard your floss after use.
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