No Need To Floss? Not So Fast!

There’s a lot of buzz surrounding the recent release by the Associated Press that stated that flossing is not longer recommended. The federal government removed this year’s dietary guidelines for flossing primarily due to a lack of research and “weak evidence.” However, as your dedicated dentist at Mendota Springs Dentistry, we strongly encourage flossing for the benefit of both your oral health and body health. It is our job to promote the most effective dental hygiene tools that reduce dental complications such as tooth decay and gum disease as much as possible. We believe that flossing is an undeniable strategy in preventing these two prevalent dental issues.

We know that flossing reaches areas of your mouth that a toothbrush simply cannot get to. In result, when you skip flossing, you are essentially neglecting up to 35% of your tooth’s surface, as well as the area below the gum line where bacteria likes to accumulate.

Perhaps the biggest danger for patients who think flossing is not necessary is the increased risk for gum disease. Flossing cleans bacteria-containing plaque between teeth and below the gum line. This substance naturally builds up in our mouths when we eat and drink throughout the day. However, it needs to be removed every 24 hours to avoid threats to your oral health. If it’s left alone, the gums can become irritated, inflamed and infected. At this point, early gum disease has set in.

What is the risk of untreated gum disease? Gum disease is not only the leading cause of tooth loss, but it also carries serious consequences beyond your oral health. Gum disease has been linked to stroke, heart disease, diabetes and premature birth. Flossing is one of the strongest weapons against the overgrowth of bacteria-filled plaque that causes gum disease in the first place.

Considering that nearly half of the American population suffers from some degree of gum disease and gum disease may be the source of serious heart disease and other medical conditions, why wouldn’t you take the extra few minutes and floss each day? There are a variety of flossing options available today, ranging from handheld flossers, flavored floss and water flossers. The right floss for you is the one that you will actually use! Contact Mendota Springs Dentistry for expert advice on how to keep your oral health in top condition.

Posted of behalf of Mendota Springs Dentistry