5 Reasons to Floss Every Day

  Flossing may help reduce tooth decay, cavities, and gum disease, according to a little amount of study. It may also aid in the prevention of foul breath and cardiovascular issues.

This isn't the type of flossing we're talking about, as much as we'd like it to be about the 2017 dancing trend. It's the original kind, for your teeth.

Yes, there has been much discussion in recent years about the overall usefulness of flossing for dental health. And, let's face it, if we don't have to do something, we're less likely to do it. So, should we abandon this project?

1. Reduces plaque formation

Plaque is a sticky, transparent coating that forms on the teeth and gumline. The bacteria in your mouth produce acids to break down carbs when you ingest starchy or sugary meals and drinks. If you don't brush or floss, bacteria, acids, and carbohydrates will continue to eat away at your teeth, eventually leaving a filmy residue.

Plaque can then release more acids, causing damage to your tooth enamel and finally cavities (aka holes in your teeth).

Plaque can solidify into tartar, which accumulates along the gumline if you don't brush your teeth thoroughly. According to the American Dental Association (ADA), as tartar builds up, so does your risk of gum disease.

Even if the evidence is dubious, it makes obvious that brushing and flossing would aid in the removal of plaque. These are the finest means we have to get rid of it, combined with interdental cleaners (tools that clean between your teeth) and special tools your dentist possesses.

2. Reduces the chance of cavities

The more plaque you have, the greater your risk of cavities. So far, the American Dental Association (ADA) agrees that brushing, flossing, and interdental devices are the best ways to remove plaque from your teeth and gums.

Flossing between your teeth can remove food particles and plaque accumulation that your toothbrush can't reach, reducing the risk of decay. Even though more research is needed to determine *exactly* how beneficial flossing is, it appears to be encouraging thus far.

3. May aid in the prevention of gum disease

Tooth decay can eventually lead to sore, bleeding gums, chewing pain, and tooth loss, all of which are signs of gum disease.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately half of all Americans over the age of 30 have gum disease, also known as periodontal disease. (Yikes!)

Researchers found that flossing is linked to a "modestly lower prevalence" of periodontitis, the most extreme form of gum disease, in a 2017 study of over 9,700 adults. Periodontitis was reduced by 17 percent in individuals who flossed at least once a week compared to those who flossed less frequently.

Although the CDC and the American Dental Association suggest flossing at least once a day to avoid gum disease, it appears that flossing less frequently may be beneficial.

4. Relieves foul breath

Instead of using a breath mint, floss prior your big date. If you want to get rid of halitosis, there's some evidence that flossing can help.

According to a 2013 review of data, good oral hygiene, particularly flossing, is "very beneficial" for reducing foul breath.

Bacteria can accumulate between your teeth even if you brush regularly. If you don't get rid of the buildup, it can cause major odours. This is when flossing comes into play.

To avoid bad breath, researchers propose using an interdental brush or, in rare cases, a tongue scraper.

5. Could be beneficial to your cardiovascular health

Flossing your teeth may be beneficial to your... heart? There's plenty of evidence to back up the connection between oral and cardiovascular health, so this notion isn't as crazy as it seems.

A major 2020 study of over 160,000 people found that those who maintained a strong dental hygiene regimen for roughly 10.5 years had a lower risk of cardiac problems such irregular pulse and heart failure.

A 2010 study discovered a substantial correlation between gum disease and heart disease in general — but this doesn't suggest gum disease was the cause. It's possible that people who look after their teeth are more likely to look after their overall health.

Some dentists, however, believe that germs from gum disease can move through your circulation and into your heart, causing problems in both.

Again, we can't be certain of the link, but brushing and flossing for a few minutes could benefit your heart and smile.