Flossing

When brushing your teeth while getting ready to head to work or get to bed, it’s often tempting to skip flossing in order to save a little time. We’ve already brushed our teeth, so what’s the worst that could happen if we don’t floss? If you asked the experts at Old Settlers Dental, they’d probably warn you about things like Halitosis, bleeding gums, periodontal disease, and even difficulties during pregnancy!

Effects of Skipping Flossing

  • Halitosis – Bad breath doesn’t just come from the bacteria and buildup on your teeth and tongue (which you hopefully brush thoroughly). Failing to floss ignores tons of plaque and bacterial waste that hangs out up between your teeth and gums. If you don’t tend to these areas, buildup will continue to collect.
  • Gum diseases – Common diseases can easily start in an unattended set of gums.  Flossing clears out a lot of the bacteria and germs that cause gingivitis, which can later develop into periodontal disease. Diseases like this don’t just lead to problems with your gums, but can expose your teeth to more harm and even cause damage to your jaw. Sometimes, if left untreated long enough, dental surgery is necessary.
  • Bleeding gums – Gums that aren’t cleaned regularly will start to be affected by the resulting buildup of germs and plaque by getting swollen and red. If left long enough, they will even start to bleed from brushing or eating.
  • Cavities – No matter how much your teeth get brushed, without flossing you can still end up with cavities. Brushing the outside of your teeth while allowing bacteria to sit untouched in your gums just gives cavities a run right at the roots of your teeth.
  • Pregnancy difficulties – You may not realize that your teeth and mouth are extra important during pregnancy, especially since keeping control of the bacteria in your body is so crucial when carrying a child. Be sure to address, rather than neglect, bacterial buildup in between your teeth.

Dentist in Round Rock, TX

Without the complete process of regular dentist visits, daily brushing and flossing, you’re leaving parts of your mouth and teeth open for some serious problems. We offer comprehensive cleanings, hygiene services and much more! If you’re looking for a new dentist in Round Rock Texas please give us a call, we would love to meet you.