Are You Flossing as Often as You Should Be? Learn What a Dentist Has to Say About It
The majority of individuals are aware that flossing is important, but they are unsure how often or how to floss. Some people aren’t sure why it’s advised. To begin, it’s important to understand that the goal is to remove plaque and bacteria from between your teeth. Because a toothbrush can’t get in there, flossing is essential for healthy gums.
If it has been more than six months since you last visited the dentist, contact California Dental Group at (800) 407-0161 to set up a dental cleaning and exam.
It’s not only about your gums when you floss
While keeping your gums healthy is one of the most important reasons to floss, it is far from the only one. Periodontal disease (also known as gum disease) has been linked to other diseases such as cancer, type 2 diabetes, and heart disease, according to recent study. Why? Because plaque and tartar buildup causes irritated gums, which is a primary cause of the disorders listed above.
Gum bleeding might be more dangerous than you realize
Gums that bleed when you floss are one symptom that you may not be flossing sufficiently. While it is an indication that you have a problem, it is not the only sign. The reality is that your mouth contains around 300 different bacteria types. There can be hundreds of thousands of unique bacteria in a healthy, non-bleeding mouth. Because bacteria can’t penetrate your skin, it’s usually not a big deal.
If the bacterium manages to enter into your circulation, it can infect your blood vessels and organs. While the extent of this form of transmission from bleeding gums to the rest of the body is still being investigated, there is enough evidence to link bleeding and inflamed gums to heart disease, cancer, and type II diabetes.
Daily flossing is a requirement
The American Dental Association recommends flossing once a day for the average patient. Why? Because that’s how long bacteria in your mouth take to grow into a bacterial colony. This can develop and adhere itself to your gum line, forming plaque or tartar. Flossing on a daily basis strengthens your gums and boosts oxygen flow, making them healthier.
Brushing and flossing shortly before bedtime is recommended. Sleeping causes your mouth to be more vulnerable to infection because you have less saliva in your mouth, which is important for battling bacteria. Flossing can help keep your gums healthy overnight by removing the source of that germs.
Visiting your dentist is an important aspect of maintaining good gum health
Of fact, no amount of flossing, no matter how well or how regularly, will ensure that you won’t have gum disease or cavities. Only a dentist’s cleaning can resolve some disorders in your mouth, and only a dentist can do the necessary x-rays to verify genuine oral health. We recommend that most patients see us twice a year at California Dental Group. Call (800) 407-0161 to schedule an appointment if it’s been more than six months since your last dental exam and cleaning.
