We all know that flossing is important to our dental health, so why do so few of us actually do it daily? Dentists at C.R. Sfeir D.D.S, General Dentistry in Lorain, Ohio hear it time and again. Many of us respond with a quiet “no” when our local dentist asks if we floss. The same lecture echoes from your first visit to the dentist, and yet, you’re still not flossing. Why? “Because it’s boring,” “It takes too long,” “It doesn’t do anything but make my gums bleed,” et cetera. You do need to floss, because the effects of not doing so resonate well beyond a few cavities.

Gingivitis, root canals, cavities, and, implants are all common consequences that may arise from poor dental hygiene and ignoring the floss, but a slew of seemingly non-tooth-related conditions can arise from not making it part of your daily routine.

Gum disease is not simply a smile assassin—it’s been linked to heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and other serious conditions. When your dentist tells you to floss, he or she is trying to ensure your overall wellness goes beyond your grin. Plaque doesn’t take a sabbatical, so skipping even a few days of flossing can lead to an increased buildup that can quickly cause detrimental conditions that demand a trip to the local dentist. And if you’re pregnant, you’re not just taking care of your own pearly whites—you’re keeping your baby healthy, as gum disease can have adverse effects on birth.

Flossing is an easy and quick daily routine to protect your teeth. The dentists at C.R. Sfeir, D.D.S, General Dentistry will help show you the proper techniques, and they offer a variety of services to keep your smile healthy. If you need dental work done, check out their website and Facebook page or give them a call at (440) 960-5200 to schedule an appointment and give your smile some satisfaction.