Not flossing allows harmful plaque and bacteria to grow in the mouth. Some bacteria can lead to cavities over time. However, gingivitis or gum inflammation can develop from plaque and bacteria in the mouth after only a few days. If you are not flossing, you allow this bacteria to linger and stick around for much too long. Gum disease can also occur, which causes extreme inflammation of your gums, resulting in susceptible gums that can cause bleeding and discomfort when you eat or drink.
Key Takeaways:
- The only way to remove such plaque is to floss. When you place the thread in the corners of your teeth, you can clean the plaque that your toothbrush can not.
- Bleeding gums are not to be ignored. You may be having an infection in your gums and need to visit a dentist at the earliest.
- You need to floss twice a day and be very gentle when flossing, or else you may hurt your gums.
“If you find flossing difficult, your dentist will be able to teach you the proper technique. Other alternatives are available that your dentist may recommend for you if you feel uneasy with flossing”