Flossing is an essential component of any good oral hygiene routine. Unfortunately, many Americans floss sporadically or not at all. Since the effects aren’t immediately obvious, many people don’t realize the harm they’re doing to their oral health by not flossing. If you don’t floss daily, here’s what can happen.

Gingivitis & Gum Disease

If you’ve ever had a popcorn kernel stuck between your teeth and gums, you know how easy it is for food particles to get lodged there. Those pockets are also the perfect place for plaque, a sticky film of bacteria. If you don’t floss daily, it hardens into tartar, which must be removed by a dental professional.

When tartar is allowed to build up, it can cause red, swollen gums, or gingivitis. This is the earliest and most treatable stage of gum disease. When left unchecked, the disease-causing plaque and tartar can spread deeper beneath the gum line. As the disease advances, the gums recede, and the bone may even begin to deteriorate, which can require one or more tooth extractions.

More Expensive Dental Appointments

Preventative oral hygiene practices combined with regular dental cleanings and oral exams can save you a lot of money on dental work. Properly caring for your teeth reduces your risk of tooth decay and gum disease, both of which may require expensive procedures like root canals, crowns, and tooth extractions.

Heart Disease & Other Serious Conditions

Gum disease isn’t the only condition you have to worry about when you don’t floss daily. Studies have shown a connection between gum disease, heart issues, diabetes, and more. The effects of our oral health on the rest of our bodies is so great that the CDC has called for public health initiatives to put greater emphasis on dental care. When you aren’t diligent with your oral hygiene, you put your physical health at risk, too.

If you aren’t flossing regularly and it’s been a while since you last visited the dentist, visit one of their offices today. They serve the surrounding communities with general and cosmetic dentistry services.They have office locations in Prairie du Chien, WI, Monona, IA and Waukon, IA, to address all your oral hygiene needs. For more information, click on the locations listed above to visit their websites.