Flossing Tips for Better Oral Health

You probably know flossing is an important part of maintaining your oral health. Not only does it clean between teeth, it also allows you the opportunity to regularly examine your mouth for issues such as redness and swelling. But is it strictly necessary? We sure think so!

Plaque Off!

At the most basic level, flossing rids your teeth of plaque and food particles you may not even see. This means regular flossing translates to regular prevention of plaque buildup and oral diseases such as gingivitis. The harmful bacteria that cause gingivitis can also develop into enamel-destroying bacteria, leading to cavities. Furthermore, they irritate the gums, potentially causing inflammation, redness and susceptibility to bleeding. Flossing puts a barricade between your mouth and many of these ailments. 

Long-Term Benefits

And the positive impact of flossing continues. A buildup of tartar between your teeth can lead to some strange smells radiating out of your mouth, which makes better flossing habits a possible solution for those with bad breath that just won’t go away. Flossing also prevents tooth decay, and can prevent diseases that affect the rest of your body. Think about it: Your mouth is a direct channel to the rest of your body, which means the harmful bacteria in your mouth could migrate into your digestive system, or even your bloodstream. By simply taking a few minutes to floss regularly, you can keep your teeth and body healthier.

Have Trouble Flossing?

Sometimes, flossing can be difficult or even painful due to certain dental conditions. Fortunately, there are plenty of remedies. Check out these specialized flossing options:

• Sensitive gums: Choose a soft floss for an easy, comfortable solution to gums that are prone to bleeding.
• Braces: Try a specialized floss with stiff ends that allow you to thread the floss beneath the main wire of your braces.
• Invisalign: Sometimes lower teeth are crowded and need aligned to allow for better cleaning, flossing and periodontal health

Top-Tier Teeth Care

Even if you’re a bit long in the tooth, it’s never too late to add flossing to your routine. After all, regular care of your teeth helps to keep them healthy in the long run and makes it easier to identify when your oral health needs a bit of help from your dentist. When you do need a dentist to step in, Perimeter Dental offers preventative dental care to ensure you a healthy smile that lasts a lifetime.

Schedule your appointment today!