For some reason, even those who are diligent about brushing their teeth twice a day tend to slack off when it comes to flossing. While you may be tempted to skip this vital step, the dentists at Coulee Family Dental in La Crosse, WI, are passionate about emphasizing its importance. Here, they offer five benefits of daily flossing.

5 Reasons to Floss Daily

1. Stave Off Gum Disease

The tendency to forgo flossing is directly correlated with the development of gum disease. When you don’t floss, plaque and bacteria build up between your teeth and gums, which then become infected. If gingivitis is left untreated, it may develop into a more severe infection—periodontitis. Periodontitis can lead to irreversible issues like jaw disintegration and tooth loss.

2. Prevent Bad Breath

If you allow plaque and bacteria to gather between your teeth, your breath will start to smell. This odorous buildup may then calcify into tartar, which can only be removed with special tools by your dentist. For fresh breath—floss! 

3. Make Your Smile Shine

Flossing will help remove the bacteria and plaque that would otherwise make your smile appear dingy and yellow. Even if you brush daily, you need to floss to maintain a bright, beautiful smile. 

4. Promote Overall Health

Neglecting to floss leads to gum disease, which has been linked to severe conditions such as heart disease. While causation has yet to be proven, most scientists agree your oral health plays a role in your overall health.

5. Save Time, Trouble & Money

By flossing today, you can avoid major general and cosmetic dentistry procedures down the road. It only takes a couple of minutes per night to avoid the likes of gum disease, root canals, and tooth extractions later on.

In addition to flossing daily, you should also visit your local dentist for regular checkups. For high-quality, reliable dental care in La Crosse, look no further than Coulee Family Dentistry. Call today at (608) 782-3102 or visit the website to learn more.