Oral hygiene is of utmost importance in maintaining oral health and overall well being. There are several practices that are considered an essential component of our dental care regimen. Dental hygiene reduces risk of developing tooth decay, gum diseases, and other oral health problems. Brushing twice a day, using mouthwash to rinse, cleaning your tongue regularly, dietary changes, etc. are among the few significant oral care habits.

Flossing involves the use of a dental floss, a cord of thin filament, to achieve interdental cleaning; it removes food and dental plaque from the between the teeth or places a toothbrush bristle cannot reach. It is a very significant oral hygiene practice, one which must be part of daily routine. Let us look at the several benefits it offers:

Brushing Is Inadequate

Most people neglect flossing as they believe brushing would clean their teeth but the tooth has five surfaces and our toothbrushes can only reach three of them. The other two untouched surfaces stay adjacent, and very close to each other, making it easy for food to remain trapped in between. The food which gets stuck between these gaps creates a breeding ground for bacteria, allowing it to build up and result in plaque. Floss can get into these tight places and remove the plaque getting deposited in these crevices.

Protects Gums & Teeth

The building up of plaque and bacteria in the mouth can lead to gum diseases which worsens as bacteria festers. If left unremoved, and untreated, it can ultimately cause Gingivitis, a periodontal disease which causes red and puffy gums to bleed easily. In addition, the bacteria between the teeth also destroy its enamel, causing cavities. Regular flossing is thus a great way to check our mouth for potential tooth decay.

Reduces Bad Breath

Bad breath or halitosis is a very common oral problem. Flossing is effective in keeping bad breath away. The food trapped between teeth decays slowly, over time. And unless these food particles are removed, it produces foul-smelling breath. Another way it contributes to halitosis is by creating a way for cavities and gum diseases, which in turn results in poor smelling breath.

Protects Overall Health

Flossing can also help in preventing other diseases. If left untreated, the bacteria in an unhealthy mouth can also harm the rest of the body. Gingivitis can enter the bloodstream and travel to other parts of the body, leading to heart disease, diabetes, and respiratory illnesses. It can offer huge benefits to long term health.

While it is possible to prevent dental health issues to a large extent by adhering to the essential oral hygiene practices, sometimes cavities and gum diseases develop despite the best care. It is important to get the help of a professional to treat dental conditions in such circumstances. Invisalign Center in Dubai, the award winning dental clinic, is your most reliable dental care partner.