You know that brushing your teeth regularly helps prevent tooth decay and gum disease, but did you know that flossing every day is important too? Flossing helps remove the food particles that your brush couldn’t get, as well as many other benefits. Dr. Robert Petrtyl and his expert staff in Cincinnati have been providing the community with quality general dentistry services, and they have five great reasons you should floss every day.

How do you benefit from regular flossing?

• Prevents bad breath. Those same food particles caught between your teeth can give you bad breath. If they’re not removed, they sit and rot, causing an unpleasant odor that can be smelled when you speak or exhale.
• Gum protection. Tartar forms when plaque accumulates and hardens at your gum line. Tartar buildup can make your gums red and swollen—a condition known as gingivitis—and that’s the first stage of gum disease. Neglecting gingivitis can lead to periodontitis, a severe form of gum disease that can result in tooth and bone loss. Flossing every day helps remove the plaque before it can turn into tartar and the need for gum disease treatment.
• Saves you money. Daily brushing and flossing results in healthier teeth and gums, and that means less visits to the dentist because you won’t have as many tooth-related problems. Even if you have dental insurance, fillings and root canals can be expensive. You save the most cash when you don’t require these treatments at all.
• May prevent other diseases. According to the Center for Disease Control, periodontal disease may be linked to other diseases, such as diabetes, heart disease, and strokes. They suspect that the bacteria from inflamed gum tissue may also be responsible for these conditions. Flossing is an easy way to lower these health risks.
• Improved immunity. The bacteria that builds up between your teeth from lack of flossing can travel down your throat and to your lungs, resulting in asthma, bronchitis, or other respiratory problems. Keep your lungs healthy by flossing every day.

Don’t forget that regular checkups with your dentist are also important for a happy, healthy smile. Call Dr. Robert Petrtyl at (513) 554-4657 to schedule your next visit, or go online to find out more about their family and pediatric dentistry services.