Flossing Teeth Can Prevent Diseases in Your Body

Regular flossing is a critical strategy to fight the plaque that builds up between teeth and along the gum line. The best dentists and hygienists in your area don’t recommend flossing just because it’s good for oral health. This practice has also been linked with overall physical health.

Reasons to Floss Daily

Plaque contains over 500 bacterial species. While some are good and serve a purpose, many are harmful if left to grow. When plaque combines with food particles, it builds up on the gum line and teeth, often resulting in gum disease and tooth decay.

Flossing is essential for maintaining healthy teeth and gums. The American Dental Association (ADA) emphasizes that flossing reaches tooth surfaces and gum areas where routine brushing cannot reach. The sides of the teeth are areas where flossing is especially helpful in preventing gum disease.

Another important reason to floss regularly is that a healthy mouth can help prevent diseases elsewhere in the body. Periodontitis that’s active in the mouth increases the risk and severity of heart disease.

Scientific Evidence Behind Flossing Benefits

The National Institutes of Health summarizes 12 studies that link daily flossing with the reduction of mild gingivitis compared with brushing alone. Also, a 2023 study confirms the correlation between periodontitis and the elevated risk of cardiac disease due to inflammation from the build-up of bacteria from plaque. As gum health improves through flossing and other healthy habits, the likelihood of heart-related inflammation decreases.

Flossing can also help older patients with dry mouth. Saliva cleans a lot of bacteria, but when saliva production decreases, bacteria build up and collect. Flossing removes the bacteria that saliva would ordinarily kill. Because older people are more susceptible to disease, flossing is vital for their health.

Top Cincinnati Dentists Recommend Flossing

The benefits of flossing far outweigh any inconvenience you might think it brings. Floss every day for healthy teeth and gums. For more information on flossing and other dental topics, check out our dental blog posts. To schedule an appointment and teeth cleaning, contact our office today at 513.489.7800.