Dr. Stephen A. Price

NORTHERN VIRGINIA GENERAL DENTISTRY &
INVISALIGN PREMIER PROVIDER

Call today for your free no obligation consultation: (703)-935-2879

6035 BURKE CENTRE PKWY | SUITE #200 | BURKE, VA 22015

Are You Clear on the Benefits of Flossing?

By: | Monday, November 18th, 2019 | General Dentistry

Monday, November 18th, 2019


We know from years of research and clinical data that oral health is not complicated. There is no secret method of keeping teeth and gums healthy. All it takes is a consistent hygiene routine. With consistent brushing every morning and night (two full minutes) and flossing once a day, it’s possible to avoid a number of unnecessary problems. Here, we point out a few clear benefits of a daily flossing habit.

Brushing your teeth removes most of the plaque and debris that accumulate but not all of it. Flossing removes the debris that collects in between teeth and right beneath the gums. When gunk is removed from these hard-to-reach places, the mouth will feel ultra-clean because it is.

Most people realize that flossing is their way to better gum health. On the contrary, when flossing is neglected, the gums become weak. Weak gums pull away from teeth. Where the fit between gums and enamel is loose, there is a chance of cavities forming. Because the area of the tooth exposed by weak gums is close to the root, there is a chance that the root area could become infected. This would need to be treated with root canal therapy.

Studies have linked poor oral health and gum disease, in particular, with several potentially serious health conditions. Gum disease is a bacteria problem. The purpose of flossing is to remove the bacteria that naturally colonize between teeth at the gum line. If bacteria accumulate, they deposit toxic chemicals into the mouth. These can lead to bad breath at the very least, severe gum disease and, at worst, can contribute to diabetes, cardiovascular problems, and more.

Some of the stains that develop on teeth are localized at the inner corners where teeth meet. Stains can also occur along the gum line where plaque and tartar can build up. If nothing else, people may be motivated to floss to keep their smile as cosmetically pleasing as possible.

Flossing doesn’t have to be an unpleasant chore. The task takes less than five minutes to perform. That’s five minutes a day for a lifetime of healthy benefits. If string floss isn’t your thing, talk to your dentist about options such as a Water Pik or flossing tool.

Let us help you manage your oral health. Call our Burke office to schedule a checkup and cleaning.

 

 

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