The Importance of Flossing: Insights from Lilly Family Dentistry – Sioux City

You’ve probably heard it time and again from your dental hygienist or dentist: “You need to start flossing. Flossing daily is important.” While it might sound like a broken record, flossing is crucial for both your oral and overall health. Understanding the benefits of daily flossing can help you keep your smile bright and healthy.

Why Flossing Matters

Flossing not only protects your gum tissue but also the surrounding bone support. When you floss, you remove plaque (dental bacteria) from between your teeth. Simply brushing your teeth doesn’t allow you to reach these areas where teeth touch. Bacteria can build up and eventually harden into tartar. This combination of bacteria and tartar under the gumline can lead to periodontal disease and eventually tooth loss.

The Link Between Oral Health and Overall Health

Periodontal disease affects not just your oral health but your overall health as well. Long-term, unresolved inflammation in your mouth can lead to various systemic issues. The bacteria that cause periodontal disease can circulate throughout your bloodstream, contributing to heart disease, stroke, increased blood sugar levels/diabetes, and Alzheimer’s, among other diseases.

The Financial Benefits of Flossing

Maintaining a consistent routine of flossing, combined with brushing and professional cleanings, can save you money in the long run. Preventative care helps avoid more severe problems down the road. By flossing, you can decrease the amount of decay that develops between your teeth, thereby reducing the need for extensive dental work. It’s an excellent way to prevent problems before they start.

Heed the Advice

While it may sound repetitive, you should follow the advice of a dental professional when it comes to flossing. The old saying, “only floss the teeth that you want to keep,” holds true. Contact our office for a comprehensive dental examination and professional cleaning, including an evaluation of your oral hygiene habits and how they can be improved.

At Family 1st Dental – Sioux City, our Sioux City Dentist and team are dedicated to helping you maintain optimal oral health. If you have any questions or need to schedule an appointment, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. Your smile is our priority!