Cleaning your teeth daily is an excellent strategy to maintain good oral health as bacteria buildup can cause cavities, foul breath, and gum disease. Brushing is essential. But did you know that brushing your teeth alone isn’t enough to keep your mouth healthy?

Floss can get to places your toothbrush can’t, such as between your teeth and beneath your gum line. Here are a few benefits of flossing according to our expert dentist, Dr. Reynolds, at Westwood Dental Family & Cosmetic Dentistry in Draper, UT.

What Are the Benefits of Flossing?

Fights Tooth Decay

Plaque is a soft white substance that naturally grows on the surface of your teeth. Plaque bacteria feed on the sugars you eat and then excrete toxic acids that erode your tooth enamel. When you have food lodged between your teeth or in hard-to-reach places, the harmful bacteria go on a feeding frenzy and gradually erode your teeth.

Cavities are most typically detected between your teeth because of this. Flossing is an efficient way to remove food particles and protect your teeth from decay.

Prevents Gum Disease

Bacteria can affect your gums in the same way it can harm your tooth enamel. When bacteria produce acids as a result of food caught in between your teeth, these acids can cause gum inflammation. In turn, this inflammation can cause gingivitis, which is the first stage of gum disease.

Flossing is a crucial component of any oral healthcare routine and is quite helpful in preventing this process from occurring.

Prevents Tartar Buildup

Plaque grows naturally in your mouth. Fortunately, it is soft and easy to remove from your teeth with simple brushing and flossing techniques. If plaque is left on your teeth for an extended period, it calcifies and transforms into tartar, a blackish-brown substance. Tartar is tough to remove at home and should only be removed by a dental professional.

To avoid having to visit the dentist, we strongly advise you to floss regularly to eliminate plaque between your teeth and gums.

Eliminates Bad Breath

While foul breath can be caused by a variety of medical conditions, one of the most common causes is bacteria. This issue is quite prevalent in those who do not floss regularly, causing bacteria and food debris to accumulate between the teeth. Flossing regularly helps remove harmful germs, keeping your breath fresh.

For more information on properly maintaining your oral health, contact Westwood Dental Family & Cosmetic Dentistry by calling (801) 716-7006 or visiting us at 11576 S State St Suite #1201, Draper, UT 84020.