Why do we need to floss? Isn’t brushing enough? How much can get stuck in between our teeth anyway?
Dental floss can prevent
tooth decay and
gum disease, hold bad breath at bay, and keep our teeth and mouth generally cleaner. So it's worth paying attention to.
The biggest benefit of flossing is that it removes large particles of food from between the teeth. Tiny pieces of food can be lodged in those spaces and, in some cases, floss is the only thing that will get it out. Left there, that food particle will eventually create a fairly nasty cavity. Your gums will appreciate it too, as the flossing removes trapped food that contributes to gum disease.
And what about
bad breath? Bacteria that live in between your teeth and live on the trapped food particles cause bad breath. Not a pretty picture, is it? Flossing dislodges those food bits, leaving bacteria nothing to live on. Those bacteria can lead to
gingivitis and
periodontal disease, causing the gums to recede and pull away from the teeth and setting you up for loose teeth that might eventually require removal.
Perhaps best of all, floss is packaged in a tiny container that fits discreetly in purse or pocket. Next time you have food stuck between your teeth, or that tenacious piece of spinach right in the front, a quick flick of your floss will solve the problem.
When you stop to consider how unpleasant any of these situations can become, doesn't it make sense to add flossing to your daily routine?
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