Flossing and your overall health

　　Regular floss,floss picks,electric air or water floss,flavored floss—whatever you prefer,use it!Flossing is one of the easiest ways to maintain your oral health and overall health.

　　How often should I floss?

　　Brushing your teeth thoroughly cleans the tops and sides of your teeth,but brushing alone won't clean the narrow spaces between your teeth.The American Dental Association(ADA)recommends that you brush your teeth twice a day and floss once a day.Some people like to floss in the morning,some like to floss after lunch,and some like to floss before bed.Whatever your preference,once a day is key!

　　What happens when I don't floss?

　　According to a 2019 survey conducted by the ADA,only 4 in 10 Americans floss at least once a day.Six out of 10 people will find harmful bacteria building up between their teeth.Over time,the extra bacteria that build up between your teeth can have lasting negative effects on your overall health.

　　People who don't floss regularly are at higher risk for periodontal(gum)disease.Gingivitis(early periodontal disease)can appear in as little as a week without flossing.A recent report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention shows that 47.2%of adults 30 and older have some form of periodontal disease,and 70.1%of adults 65 and older have periodontal disease..In severe cases(called periodontitis),the gums may pull away from the teeth,bone may be lost,and the teeth may even fall out!

　　Periodontal disease is one of the biggest threats to your overall health.Recent research from the American College of Cardiology shows a direct link between periodontal disease and inflammation of the arteries.Oral bacteria can increase a person's risk of atherosclerosis,or the hardening and narrowing of the arteries,significantly increasing the likelihood of heart disease,according to a 2016 study published in the journal BMJ Postgraduate Medicine.

　　So,if you floss regularly,stick with it!If you don’t,start today!If you think you may be at risk for periodontal disease,make an appointment!At Pilotage Dental Dental Laboratory,we have specially trained in-house periodontists who work hand-in-hand with your general dentist to ensure all of your oral health needs are met.

　　Happy flossing!