We know how hard remembering to floss is for some of our patients. Our empathetic team of dentists understands that flossing is not always at the forefront of your mind. We all lead busy lives, and it’s easy for simple tasks to get pushed aside in favor of more pressing issues or because we’re exhausted at the end of the day.
However, regular flossing is vital to your oral health. When you don’t floss your teeth daily, the following begins to happen:
Plaque and Tartar Takes Over
Your toothbrush can’t reach the same spots that floss can, and when you don’t floss, plaque and tartar begin to fill those spaces. Plaque and tartar lead to tooth decay and gum disease, among other problems, so it’s never a good idea to let build-up begin.
Additionally, the only way to remove tartar from your teeth is with a professional cleaning. That means you won’t be able to floss it or brush it away once it’s taken hold.
Gingivitis
Regular flossing helps protect your teeth from gingivitis, an early stage of gum disease, by removing the plaque and tartar build-up mentioned above. If your gums bleed when you floss, are painful, or swell, you should schedule an appointment with your dentist. Your dentist will likely recommend a more rigorous cleaning schedule that includes a dedication to flossing.
Your Overall Health Can Suffer
When you develop gum disease, it can have effects on your overall health. Gum disease has been linked to diabetes, strokes, heart disease, and other serious health conditions. Protect your overall oral health with flossing, so you don’t have to deal with those problems.
Remembering to Floss
To remind yourself to floss at least once a day, it’s helpful to set a reminder on your phone or an alarm. That way, you don’t have to worry about adding to the long list of things to do that’s swirling around your mind!
Dental Cleaning in Metairie
If you want healthier teeth and gums, please contact us for a dental exam and cleaning. We’re here to help you achieve the best oral health possible, even if you haven’t been maintaining an excellent oral hygiene routine at home.
We can help get you back on the path to outstanding oral health.