Dental floss does far more than get tiny chunks of food out of the gaps between your teeth. Using dental floss every day will make you look better, smell better, be healthier and help you live longer. A frightening array of debris and bacteria hides between your teeth and along your gum line. Using dental floss is the simplest and most effective way to protect yourself.
Removes Food
The most obvious benefit to using dental floss is that it removes food stuck between your teeth that a toothbrush cannot get. Those who do not floss regularly are often surprised by what floss digs out. Food can be hiding between your teeth even though you are unaware of it. It sits there and literally rots inside your mouth.
Removed Plaque
Using dental floss removes plaque from between your teeth. When plaque builds up, it becomes tartar. This is the unattractive, hard, crusty stuff that forms on teeth and makes them look yellow. Brushing removes plaque from the surface of teeth, but only dental floss can remove it from in between.
Prevents Gum Disease
When tartar builds up between teeth it can lead to gum disease. This is known as gingivitis. It eventually leads to periodontitis which is deterioration of the bone holding your teeth in your mouth. Using dental floss keeps your gums healthy and helps you hold on to your teeth. Those who floss regularly keep their teeth years longer than those who rarely floss.
Prevents Bad Breath
Rotting food that is stuck between your teeth emits a horrible smell. Tooth decay and gum disease also produce foul odors. This is often the reason people have bad breath. Regular use of dental floss keeps your mouth healthy and smelling fresh.
Prevents Heart Disease
Using dental floss is actually good for your heart. All sorts of bacteria hide between your teeth. This includes potentially deadly streptococcus. If bacteria are allowed to build between your teeth it can actually inflame heart muscle and cause complications for people with other heart ailments.
Prevents Diabetes
The oral bacteria that can contribute to heart disease can also aggravate diabetes. Diabetics are also likely to develop gum inflammation faster than healthy people. It is especially vital for them to use dental floss daily to prevent gum disease and worsen their diabetes.
