If you are looking for an easy way to make a significant difference in your overall health, flossing is a great one. Just a few minutes a day can lead to significant health benefits in your mouth and beyond.

Flossing is the best way to prevent gum disease, which can lead to:

  • Tooth loss
  • Heart disease
  • Pregnancy complications

There are also concerns among some people that the chronic inflammation associated with gum disease may contribute to systemic health problems and autoimmune disorders, though this has little scientific support.

Gum Disease Is the Leading Cause of Tooth Loss

Many people think that cavities are the main reason why you will lose a tooth. Although cavities can damage a tooth, they’re very treatable. Tooth-colored fillings, dental crowns, and more can be used to restore a tooth that’s damaged by cavities.

Gum disease, on the other hand, infects the tissue around your teeth. It can lead to an inflammatory response that damages the bones and ligaments that hold teeth in place. These are harder to repair, and are more likely to result in a loss of teeth.

Gum Disease and Heart Disease

Gum disease has been associated with several types of heart disease, including an increased risk of heart attack and stroke.

We’re still not certain if gum disease causes heart disease or if both are risk factors for a third illness, but two of the most aggressive bacteria in gum disease have been found in arterial plaque–the artery-hardening phenomenon found in the early stages of heart disease. Since coronary heart disease is the leading cause of death for women, followed by stroke, which can also be caused by arterial plaque, flossing is a sensible health precaution.

Gum Disease Leads to Pregnancy Complications

Gum disease has also been associated with pregnancy problems. Women with periodontal disease are more likely to have a preterm birth. Gum disease has also been correlated with low birth weight, although it’s not sure whether it’s a cause.

Support for Your Oral Hygiene Efforts

Although home care is crucial to maintaining your health, a team effort is best to combat gum disease. A professional cleaning can help remove hardened plaque deposits (tartar) that are resistant to brushing and flossing and can shelter oral bacteria.

To schedule a cleaning in Philadelphia, please call Beyond Exceptional Dentistry at (610) 272-0828.