If the question, “How often do you floss?” is the part of your dental appointment you dread, it may be time to make some changes. Unlike brushing, flossing does not have the instant gratification of cleaner teeth and fresher breath, but the impact of flossing on your tooth and gum health can be amazing. Even more importantly, flossing reduces the risk for and the side effects of numerous chronic and systemic illnesses as well. A recent BBC series discussing oral health in the UK presented some startling evidence that has been interpreted as stating that flossing isn’t essential to oral hygiene. The truth is that the British Dental Association evidence actually said that only brushing has the years of research and longevity studies in the UK that proves necessity as part of regular hygiene routines. While the jury is still out on the effects of flossing in the UK, the American Dental Association studies reveal brushing alone isn’t enough to remove plaque between teeth. Flossing is essential to oral health, especially in prevention of gum disease, one of the most common oral health concerns, the leading cause of tooth loss in the US, and the reason for many of the whole body health concerns related to poor oral health. Find out more about how flossing may help you prevent dental and whole body health concerns below, or contact your Toledo dentistry team at Dental Group West.
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