In today’s busy world, many people are skipping applying the floss to their teeth. Unfortunately, it is hurting their teeth more than they realize, and making dental costs go higher because they will need to make more visits to the dentist. Flossing is very important to keep your teeth healthy – and to keep them longer.

Why Floss Is Needed

As you brush your teeth, you are removing the bacteria and plaque that forms on your teeth every day. This is good, and it will help your teeth last longer. The problem is that the bristles of a toothbrush cannot remove the food and bacteria between your teeth. Only floss can reach it.

The plaque that is constantly forming on your teeth consists of millions of bacteria. It is naturally in your mouth and it will always be there. Some of the bacteria produce an acid whenever they come in contact with sugar or carbs. It is this bacterium and acid that causes cavities, and also gum disease.

When you leave the sugars, food particles, and bacteria between your teeth, you increase the likelihood that cavities will form there. You are also raising the risk of developing gum disease – and you may already have it.

Gum Disease

If your gums bleed when you brush or floss them, you already have gum disease. You may also have noticed an inflamed place on your gums, or that they are more red than usual – another indication of gum disease.

If you have not been brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing daily, this is probably why you have gum disease. If these are the only symptoms you have, and not receding gums, spaces developing between your teeth, or loose teeth, then you can probably get rid of gum disease at this stage by brushing and using floss every day. If you have some of these other symptoms, you have periodontitis and you will need to see a dentist to remove it.

Losing Teeth

Almost half of the adults in America have the more serious form of gum disease – periodontitis. This is why most Americans are losing their teeth today. The thing to know is that losing teeth is not a normal feature of growing old. Instead, it is a consequence of not taking care of your teeth properly.

Types of Floss

If you want a choice, there are many different kinds of floss available today. Not only do some versions come with handles, making it easier for children or people with coordination difficulties to floss – such as seniors – but it also comes in many flavors. You can get dental floss that tastes like bubble gum, cinnamon, mint, bacon, and more. Devices such as floss threaders even make it possible for people with braces to floss.

Flossing your teeth every day is a great step in providing good oral care for your teeth, but regular dental visits are also needed. You can get teeth cleaning and many other dental services by calling us at (914) 732-3377.