Surely, you know that flossing is a huge benefit for your oral health. But still many people avoid it. Don't let that be you! A small amount of time can save you big in the end, in both time and money.
Today, your Columbia, TN dentist reiterates the need for a daily flossing regimen, and some common forms of damage that you can cause by ignoring your health!
Why Should I Floss?
There are numerous benefits to routine flossing of teeth. Interdental cleaning, or the cleaning between the teeth, helps remove plaque from the surface of the teeth. While the reachable surfaces are cleanable with brushing, but no brush can reach every place in the mouth.
When plaque develops, bacterial growth begins to form on the site. If this is in a hard to reach area of the mouth, like between two molars, that growth can continue unimpeded. This will continue either until the teeth are cleaned or the tooth is lost due to decay.
It Can Get Worse
Because of the likelihood of the bacterial growth between the teeth, unflossed teeth are significantly more at risk of developing cavities than in individuals who floss. Because these cavities are also harder to identify, they can grow larger and deeper than outward facing ones.
This means that often, the tooth will be eaten away to the root. When the root is infected, most often a root canal is necessary. This involves what is called a pulpectomy; essentially, the dentist removes the fleshy portion of the inside of the tooth.
This is a fairly invasive procedure, especially in comparison to daily flossing. And it is certainly much cheaper than surgery in both the short and the long run! And as dentists, we want to maintain as much healthy natural tooth as possible, in most situations.
How Often Should I Floss?
The most important thing to remember when it comes to flossing is: do it. If it’s easier for you to floss in the morning, then you should do it. If it’s comforting to do right before bed, that’s also a perfect time. Whatever you need to do to make your oral health care a part of your routine, the better.
Have Further Questions?
If you are having trouble with your smile, please do not wait. Call Creekside Family Dentistry in Columbia, TN, today at (931) 388–3384!
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