Benefits of Flossing

Have you ever wondered what the benefits of flossing were? It is one of the topmost important steps to do to keep a When you go to the Dentist it is often you’re reminded of flossing.  The majority of people today see that brushing their teeth is a non-negotiable part of keeping their mouth healthy.  Flossing is also very important to have in your daily routine.  It does way more than dislodge little pieces of food.  Below Smiles of Round Lake explains a fee of the many benefits of flossing your teeth,

Brushing with Flossing is More Effective Than Brushing Alone

Brushing and flossing work together to clear all food debris from your teeth and beneath your gums. The food particles that are left between your teeth cause both gum inflammation and tooth decay.  It is important that you do what you can to remove it.

Flossing Keeps Your Breath Fresh

Having food stuck between your teeth contributes to bad breath.  Decaying food never smells good and because of that, you should get rid of it by flossing.

Flossing Can Control Diabetes

Flossing can help you control blood sugar levels if you have diabetes. Have you ever had unexplained rises in your blood sugar and could not figure out why? According to endocrinologists, flossing has a direct impact on controlling your sugar in two main ways.

First, the food particles left behind in your teeth can cause bacterial growth. Once this bacteria enters your bloodstream, it can cause unstable glucose levels. Second, food and sticky sweets eventually absorb into your bloodstream from your gums. This can cause small but noticeable spikes in your blood sugar levels.

Flossing Reduces the chance of Respiratory Disease

Did you know that flossing could possibly eliminate some of the oral bacteria that cause pneumonia and bronchitis?  When you don’t floss the bacteria from your mouth can travel down your throat and into your respiratory system.

Flossing can Prevent Heart Disease

Without regular flossing, you might notice that your gums bleed, which is a sign of gingivitis. One of the problems associated with this is that it allows bacteria to enter your bloodstream and attack your organs. Eventually, this can result in heart disease or blood clots. To significantly reduce the risk of heart disease, especially in men, daily flossing is a simple but effective solution.

How To Floss Correctly

The technique is key to good dental hygiene. And many of us are getting it wrong.

The American Dental Association recommends flossing like so:

Step 1: Wrap a length of floss (equal to the distance from your hand to your shoulder) around your index and middle fingers, leaving about two inches between your hands.

Step 2: Slide the floss between your teeth and wrap it into a “C” shape around the base of the tooth and gently under the gumline. Then, wipe the tooth from the base to the tip two or three times.

Note that they recommend wiping from base to tip, not moving the floss from side to side.

Step 3: Floss both sides of every tooth using a new section of floss as it shows signs of wear or picks up particles and debris.

Step 4: After flossing, put it in the garbage – not down the toilet.

They also recommend brushing after flossing. Though, many dentists believe that the order matters less than the technique used.

Flossing can be a way to get rid of food stuck between your teeth, but the benefits of flossing don’t stop there. Regular flossing can play a role in reducing heart disease, respiratory ailments, bad breath, diabetes regulation, and even gingivitis. With so many positive benefits, everyone should make a habit of flossing daily.

Smiles Of Round Lake is here to answer your dental question that you might have. Are you overdue for a Dental Checkup or have a concern if your mouth? Please give Smiles of Round Lake a call at 847-546-1542 today!