When it comes to maintaining a healthy smile, brushing is not enough. Flossing plays a crucial role in your oral health regimen and can prevent a number of serious dental issues. Here, the caring dentists at the office of Dr. Robert Petrtyl in Cincinnati, OH, discuss a few of the important benefits of flossing. With over 30 years of experience, you can trust them to provide excellent advice to use outside of regular appointments. 

Why Flossing Is Important 

1. Prevent Gum Disease

Gum disease is a serious dental problem caused by the buildup of dental plaque along the gum line, which leads to inflammation and bleeding. Floss allows you to clean underneath the gum line, which is critical for preventing gum disease. Without routine flossing, this issue can advance into the later stages, causing tooth loss and jaw deterioration.

2. Remove Food Particles

While brushing helps to remove bacteria from the front of your teeth, it can’t reach the debris caught in between the teeth. If this bacteria is left to build up, it turns into plaque, a sticky film that clings to the teeth and causes tooth decay and gum disease. Once plaque progresses into tartar, you won’t be able to remove it without a visit to the dentist.

3. Avoid Bad Breath

When food particles and bacteria get caught between the teeth, this contributes to bad breath, which can be prevented by using dental floss. Flossing also helps to improve the saliva development in your mouth, which is a natural disinfectant that cleans your smile of harmful bacteria.

To learn more about the benefits of flossing and other ways to maintain your oral health, turn to the seasoned dentists at Dr. Robert Petrtyl in Cincinnati, OH. They offer a comprehensive range of general and cosmetic dentistry solutions, from routine cleanings and oral exams to tooth extractions and dental implants. Call (513) 554-4657 today to speak with a friendly representative and schedule an appointment. You can also visit their website for more information about their full list of services.