We all have been taught to brush our teeth twice a day. And most of us practice it religiously. But do you think brushing your teeth twice is enough to keep them healthy and strong? Think again! Flossing your teeth twice every day -morning and evening is equally important. Ironically, we all miss out on this important step while taking care of our oral hygiene. Here is why flossing is as important as brushing your teeth.
Just brushing your teeth is not enough
Teeth help to break down the food we eat. But the small particles of the food most often get stuck between our teeth causing cavities and various gum disease. This is where flossing comes into play. Simply brushing doesn’t clean every nook and corner of your teeth, for that, you have to floss. When sticky and fatty foods aren’t cleared from between the teeth and corners they cause dysbiosis of the oral microbiome and damage the teeth and gums.
The food waste and saliva combine to create bacteria that surrounds your teeth. With time, the plaque leads to cavities, gingivitis, and even bone or tooth loss. Flossing helps to remove the plaque from between your teeth, which cannot be removed simply by brushing.
What can go wrong if you do not floss?
People who do not floss their teeth every day are at the risk of developing chronic gingivitis and more cavities than one who flosses daily. When these cavities are left untreated, it can even lead to multiple root canal treatments or extractions. Bad breath is another oral problem one may have to deal with.
In the worst-case, it can even lead to large cavities, advanced gum disease, and chronic inflammation.
The bottom line
Floss your teeth two to three times a day with waxed floss.
Make sure to go all the way down and cover every corner of your teeth. If your teeth bleed when you brush or floss, consult your doctor.