While using floss is a critical aspect of keeping your mouth healthy, it seems so insignificant that many people skip it. While you might not see any immediate drawbacks to opting out of flossing, it will catch up with you eventually, and by then it might be too late to correct the damage done. If you’re ever tempted to head out the door without flossing, think back to these five reasons why it’s so important.
- Floss can get where toothbrushes can’t reach.
While there’s no doubt that a toothbrush is essential to good oral health, the fact of the matter is that toothbrushes can’t reach all of the small crevices between your teeth. If you don’t use floss, the food particles that become trapped in these tiny spaces can begin to grow bacteria, which can lead to all sorts of dental problems. Additionally, toothbrushes can’t reach the underneath your gums, and this is another common spot where microorganisms can flourish if left untreated.
- Floss prevents tooth decay.
The most common dental problem people encounter is tooth decay, which is caused by bacterial growth. If left untreated, tooth decay can lead to tooth sensitivity, the breakdown of enamel, and in extreme cases, chipping. However, this condition is completely preventable when you include flossing as part of your oral care routine.
- Floss can help with halitosis.
While halitosis (known informally as bad breath) isn’t a potentially severe condition, it can still be quite embarrassing for sufferers. When bacteria begin to grow between your teeth, they don't just begin to cause tooth decay—they also causes halitosis by smelling quite unpleasant. Flossing removes the stray food particles that cause these smelly bacteria, ensuring that your breath stays fresh.
- Floss protects your gums.
Regular flossing isn’t just about your teeth—it’s also important for good gum health. Gingivitis is a condition that leaves your gums discolored, inflamed, and susceptible to bleeding. While gingivitis itself is easily treatable, it can lead to periodontal disease, which is much more difficult to deal with. This disease commonly leads to receding gums, and in extreme cases, actual tooth loss. Since receding gums may never fully recover, it’s best to stop them before they start by preventing gingivitis.
- Floss is cheaper than surgery.
Conditions such as tooth decay and periodontal disease can be quite expensive to correct, but it’s entirely possible to keep things from getting that bad. If you’re ever tempted to skip flossing, just think about the time and money it will take to repair your neglect.
