Flossing is an often-overlooked step of an oral health routine but is important in preventing dental problems such as tooth decay and gum disease. At Corbin Dental, we want our patients to understand the importance of maintaining their dental health and oral hygiene. Flossing is integral to taking care of your teeth and gums at home and is a part of our dental cleanings in-office.
Dr. Richard Corbin and Dr. Bruce Corbin are passionate about helping their patients understand preventative care, which includes in-home and in-office hygiene. If you require routine dental care or gum treatments, call our dentist office in Bayside at (718) 395-3458, or our Oyster Bay office at (516) 922-5888. You may also schedule an appointment with Drs. Corbin on our website.
Why Does Flossing Matter?
There are multiple benefits to flossing between your teeth. The top three reasons why you should floss regularly are as follows:
1. Flossing Removes Bacteria
Most of the bacteria that live in our mouths are not harmful, but many can cause cavities. Bacteria feed on food particles and plaque that is not removed by flossing. The bacteria then produce acids that eat away at the tooth enamel to produce cavities. Cavities not only increase tooth sensitivity but slowly weaken the tooth structure.
2. Flossing Prevents Halitosis
When bacteria build up on and between our teeth, the wastes from their digestive process can cause bad breath, also known as halitosis. Removing these bacteria and the leftover food particles that they feed upon help prevent bad breath. Brushing and flossing regularly not only improves your breath but aesthetics and overall health.
3. Flossing Fights Gum Disease
What begins as irritated or bleeding gums can quickly turn into gum disease and tooth loss. Regularly removing plaque and tartar from between teeth by daily flossing is a vital step in keeping gum disease from taking hold. There are also links between gum disease and an increased risk of developing problems like heart disease, diabetes, and Alzheimer’s disease. Brushing and flossing at least twice daily helps to fight against developing gingivitis, or gum inflammation, and eventually periodontitis, or gum disease.