The Benefits of Flossing Daily

We all know flossing can be painful, take too much time, or feel uncomfortable. There is a reason the dental hygienist asks if and how much you are flossing. Flossing daily is a critical step in your dental hygiene routine and closely correlates with oral health.

So, what are some of the benefits of flossing daily, and how can we make it easier to get into the habit of it?

Five Benefits of Flossing Daily

Flossing doesn’t just keep the dentist off your back; there are numerous benefits to flossing daily as part of your dental hygiene routine.

1. Removes Plaque and Debris Buildup

Flossing helps remove food particles and plaque that build up between teeth and along the gumline. Removing these can help prevent potential cavities and tartar.

2. Helps to Reduce Gum Disease

Flossing reduces the chance of gum diseases like Gingivitis. In extreme cases, Gingivitis can lead to a more severe gum disease—Periodontitis. However, if caught early, periodontal diseases can be treated easily with periodontal treatment.

3. Helps Control Bad Breath

Flossing helps control and fight bad breath by removing bacteria, preventing plaque buildup, and removing stuck food particles.

4. Increases Blood Circulation in Your Gums

Flossing increases blood circulation in your gums. Good blood circulation helps to deliver nutrients needed to support good gum and teeth health.

5. Lowers the Risk of Disease

If you do not floss, the bacteria from tooth decay can enter the bloodstream, leading to inflammation and other severe medical conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, and respiratory diseases.

Ways to Make Flossing Easier and Become a Habit

Eubanks Family Dental is all about making things easy and convenient for you. Try out these five different methods for making flossing more accessible and help it become a part of your daily routine.

Set reminders:
- An alarm on your phone or a sticky note on your bathroom mirror can be a helpful reminder.

Floss at the same time every day:
- Doing something simultaneously every day can help trick your body and brain into adapting it into your daily routine quicker than at various times each day.

Floss while you are watching TV:
- Occupying your brain with a more enjoyable and stimulating event can help make flossing more manageable and quicker.

Leave floss in various spots:
- You are more likely to floss if it feels less like a chore. Leaving floss in various spots, such as your car, purse, or bedside table, will feel less like a chore.

Find a buddy to hold you accountable:
- Everything is more fun with a friend! Challenge a friend, partner, or neighbor to start a flossing challenge with you to help hold each other accountable.

Eubanks Family Dental is Here to Help You

Whether you’re trying to floss more frequently or just beginning your journey, Eubanks Family Dental is here to help you with all your dental needs. From preventive to restorative and cosmetic dentistry, we do it all!