3 Reasons Your Oral Care Routine Should Include Flossing

young woman showing 3 fingersWhen you tally up the different behaviors you practice to protect your smile against tooth decay and gum disease, you should include a consistent habit of flossing. By performing this task regularly, you protect areas of your smile that are difficult to clean by brushing alone. Without flossing, tartar deposits can form between teeth, and oral bacteria can cause issues with tooth decay as well as gum disease. Your Virginia Beach, VA dentist’s office can talk with you about your oral care routine during your next routine dental exam. By brushing, flossing, and keeping to a smart, smile-friendly diet, you can enjoy lasting protection against problems with your oral health!

1. Tartar Deposits Can Form Between Teeth

Tartar buildup can be an unsightly problem, as well as a risk factor when it comes to oral health problems that demand restorative dental work. You are not able to remove tartar deposits by brushing and flossing, but you can stop them from forming when you effectively fight plaque buildup. Every time you floss, you remove any plaque present between teeth, which ensures tartar deposits will not form in these spaces. When tartar is not present, you are less likely to have problems with tooth decay that can require dental crowns or dental fillings.

2. Flossing Lowers Your Risk For Gingivitis

It is important to emphasize the potential impact of gingivitis on a person’s oral and general health. When it first becomes an issue, gingivitis can cause someone to bleed easily when they brush and floss, and it may lead to visible swelling or discoloration. If nothing is done in time, gingivitis can become more serious, at which point the infection can raise your risk for tooth loss and even some general health issues!

3. You Can Avoid Problems With Chronic Bad Breath

If you leave bacteria and food debris between teeth, you can have a difficult time preventing problems with chronic bad breath. Spoiling food and bacteria can produce odors that are less than refreshing. If you want to fight the buildup of these agents between teeth, brushing alone is not effective.

Virginia Beach Families Can Count On Oral Health Support At Absolute Dental Care

Our Virginia Beach, VA dentist’s office has experience helping patients fight active oral health issues. You should know that we can also help you prevent problems by offering support through regular exams, and through guidance on better daily habits. Flossing can be a particularly important habit, as it helps you remove harmful agents that can build up between teeth and avoid removal from your toothbrush. We are prepared to help patients with their preventive, restorative, cosmetic, and prosthetic needs. To find out more about our services, please call Absolute Dental Care at (757) 428-7440.