We have all heard our dentists tell us to floss our teeth at least once a day, but most people skip this step in their daily hygiene routine. Something that many dentists don’t tell us, though, is that flossing is about more than just maintaining that pearly white smile.
While routine flossing does help maintain a healthy mouth by preventing gum disease like gingivitis, it does so much more than that.
It also helps maintain heart, brain, and respiratory health. In truth, flossing impacts the whole body in a positive way.
Keep reading to find out about the often unmentioned benefits of daily flossing so that you can stay healthy for the long run.
What Happens If You Don’t Floss?
When people neglect their oral health, causing plaque and harmful bacteria to build up, this can lead to inflammation and infections. Often times, these infections do not stay contained in the mouth.
The mouth is the entryway into the body, and there are many tiny blood vessels within gums. If bacteria are left to sit untreated, these microscopic organisms can easily enter the bloodstream through these blood vessels, impacting the overall health of the body, including the heart, brain, and lungs.
Heart Health
As harmful bacteria from the mouth enter the bloodstream and spread throughout the body, they can cause inflammation and plague buildup in arteries. This increases the risk of clogged arteries, heart attack, and even stroke. It can also lead to a condition called atherosclerosis, which is when arteries harden and narrow, restricting blood flow and increasing chances of heart attacks and strokes.
Brain Health
Similar to the cardiovascular system, bacteria can also enter the nervous system through chronic gum disease, leading to inflammation in the brain and lower cognitive function. Researchers have discovered the same bacteria found in gum infections also in the brain of those suffering from Alzheimer’s. This bacteria produce enzymes that kill nerve cells, causing memory loss and less cognitive ability.
Respiratory Health
In addition to the bloodstream, bacteria caused by neglected flossing can also enter the body through small droplets of saliva or mucus. These tiny droplets are often inhaled and deposited in the lungs, where again, they can cause inflammation. This inflammation can lead to serious conditions like pneumonia, bronchitis, and worsening COPD.
Flossing Tips and Tricks
Now that you know how flossing can aid the health of the entire body, not just the mouth, how do you get the most out of the process? Below, we have highlighted some tips to help make flossing more effective:
• Floss at least once a day – Consistency is key to consistent health.
• Floss before brushing – Flossing loosens food debris in your mouth, making it easier to remove bacteria and clean teeth when brushing.
• Use the right technique – Gently insert the floss between every tooth and move in a back and forth motion as well as in a “C” shape around each tooth. Remember to be gentle to avoid harming the gums.
• Don’t rush – Flossing does not have to be time consuming. In fact, it should only take a couple of minutes and can easily be added to any bedtime routine.
• Choose the right kind of floss – Floss comes in many forms, including string, picks, brushes, and even water flossers. If one type doesn’t work for you, try another.
Don’t Skip the Floss
Regularly flossing teeth does more than just prevent oral issues like bad breath and gum disease. It aids in maintaining the health of every system within the body. While flossing may seem like something small, it has a huge impact. So, the next time you think about skipping this simple routine, remember that it’s effects extend far beyond merely your smile.
Personalized Dentistry in Walled Lake
Call our Walled Lake Dental Clinic to schedule a Free Consultation and get the dental care that you need and deserve. Patient care and safety are our top priority as we address the dental needs and concerns of the entire family. If you need restorative dentistry, dental treatments or cosmetic dentistry to enhance your smile, we’ve got you covered. Get a healthy mouth and beautiful smile that lasts with customized dental care with Dr Hechtman!