Flossing can be a chore. It comes after brushing your teeth in things a lot of us intentionally forget to do. But it’s an essential part of any dental health regimen, which is why those of us at Arbor Lakes Dental in Maple Grove are constantly reminding our patients to brush and floss … brush and floss!
Here are three really good reasons why you should never overlook flossing your teeth:
1. Bad Breath
Bad breath is something we all worry about. It’s part of our appearance, and we are all aware of how that can affect our relationships.
When we meet new people, speak with others in close quarters, or greet a partner, bad breath is on our mind. We worry about how bad breath affects first impressions.
It makes sense, then, that bad breath would be one of the things you might worry about.
Flossing is a great way to help you avoid bad breath.
Flossing your teeth helps reduce plaque buildup between your teeth. It also helps flush out pockets of bacteria. Together, plaque and bacteria can create bad breath.
To reduce your chances of being caught with bad breath, floss every day.
2. Cavities
When bacteria is allowed to concentrate on your teeth, cavities can occur. Plaque buildup is a concentration of bacteria. When plaque is allowed to remain between your teeth it gives bacteria a chance to destroy enamel and damage your teeth. Cavities are damage to your teeth caused by bacteria.
Flossing gets between your teeth where your brush can’t get and helps remove plaque buildup. It also loosens pockets of bacteria that can be removed with a quick rinse.
3. Tooth Decay
Tooth decay is the softening of your tooth enamel by acids. Acids are created by bacteria when they feast on leftover carbohydrates in your teeth.
Flossing can help you in two ways. First, you will remove leftover food particles so bacteria have less to work with. Food between your teeth can be microscopic, and that’s why it isn’t good enough to do a quick tongue slide to check your teeth. The particles are too small to see or feel.
Second, flossing will help remove the bacteria from between your teeth, so there aren’t enough left to create destructive acids.
To maintain excellent dental health, the team at Arbor Lakes Dental in Maple Grove recommends flossing every time you brush your teeth. We also recommend seeing us for a cleaning and checkup every six months. Our services include family and cosmetic dentistry. Schedule your next appointment with us today!
Contact Arbor Lakes Dental:
763-494-4443
Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):
12000 Elm Creek Blvd N Ste 230
Maple Grove, Minnesota
55369
