4 reasons not to forget about flossing

reasons to floss

4 reasons not to forget about flossing

Okay people, it’s time to stop the neglect on your mouth! Not only is it giving you bad breath and yellow teeth, but it is also setting you up for future health complications. Poor care for your mouth will eventually lead to problems like diabetes, disease, heart issues, and many more ailments, even cancer!

1. PERIODONTAL DISEASE

Periodontal disease, or better known as gum disease, is a result in build of plaque / tartar on your teeth where bacteria thrives. One outcome is called Gingivitis, or when the gums are inflamed, possibly bleed, and are red in color. When this early form is not treated (gingivitis), Periodontal disease is the next phase of worsening. This disease attacks your bone structure and can cause tooth loss! read about periodontal care…

2. DIABETES

Did you know that nearly 90% of those who suffer from diabetes also have some form of periodontal disease? That’s shocking, and makes you wonder which came first, the chicken or the egg. Or in this case the diabetes or the periodontal disease. With that said, managing your blood sugar levels runs through your mouth from what you consume to how to brush and floss. If you’re having issues with blood sugar management, it could be an unhealthy mouth!

3. HARMFUL BACTERIA

With a blatant disregard for hygiene makes your mouth / body a breeding ground for harmful bacteria. This disease ridden bacteria forms in your mouth, throat, and lungs wreaking havoc on anything it comes across. Bacteria in the mouth can cause periodontal disease, while bacteria in your throat can increase your risk of stroke / heart disease, and bad bacteria in your lungs can induce respiratory problems.

If that isn’t incentive enough to start brushing and flossing during the morning and night, then I don’t know what is! Two minutes two times a day with a minimum of a nightly floss could just save your life!

4. HEART DISEASE

Individuals with periodontal disease are twice as likely to suffer or develop heart disease. The plaque and bacteria associated with periodontal disease flow through your bloodstream attacking whatever they latch on to. In this case it would your heart’s arterial passages. The plaque narrows these passages which can lead to a heart attack or stroke. Believe it or not, but many physicians think the presence of gum disease and other poor oral hygiene habits is just as good for predicting heart disease as one’s cholesterol levels.

Thank you for taking the time to become a better you! Invest in yourself and make habits that will benefit you and your loved ones for a long time. If you have any questions, or would like to set up an appointment, don’t hesitate to call us at (206) 203-9385 or reach us online!

Jeff Knudson, DDS

Jeff Knudson, DDS

As a Seattle area native, I could not be more thrilled and honored to serve my hometown. Dentistry is a true passion in my life and I am committed to providing the best dental care in all of Seattle. I have often been told that I could “talk teeth all day” – and it’s true!

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