You need to be flossing. Here’s why –

Photo Credit: Rob Boudon via Compfightcc

Think about your last orthodontic or dental check-up. When your dentist or orthodontist asked, “have you been flossing daily?” How did you answer? Honestly. According to a 2010 survey conducted by the American Dental Association, a little less than 50% of Americans would have to answer no. Why is flossing so important? Here are a couple of reasons -

Your toothbrush can’t do it alone – Most Americans are great at brushing the recommended two times a day. Which is great. Regular brushing can help prevent plaque – but, a toothbrush cannot help prevent tartar from forming in between teeth. Floss gets all of the food particles a toothbrush leaves behind.

Show your gums some love too – Speaking of tartar, tartar buildup can lead to gingivitis: red, swollen gums that are the first stage of gum disease. If left unchecked, the bacteria-laden tartar and plaque can spread even deeper below the gum line, causing periodontitis: severe gum disease characterized by severe inflammation and eventual tooth and bone loss.

Flossing can help keep the rest of your body healthy - Tooth and gum disease can have effects that go far beyond discolored teeth, discomfort or bad breath. Research has shown that the bacteria that flourish in an unhealthy mouth can harm the rest of the body, leading to heart disease, diabetes and respiratory illness.