Why are brushing and flossing important?
Regular brushing and flossing can help you: • Prevent tooth decay and cavities. Tooth decay can lead to more serious problems, such as infection. • Prevent gum (periodontal) disease, which can damage gum tissue and the bones that support the teeth, and can ultimately cause you to lose teeth. • Make it possible that your teeth will last a lifetime. • Shorten the time you spend with the dentist and hygienist and make the trip more pleasant. • Save money. By preventing tooth decay and gum disease, you can reduce the need for fillings and other costly procedures. • Prevent bad breath. Brushing and flossing rid your mouth of the bacteria that cause bad breath. • Keep your teeth white by preventing staining from food, drinks, and tobacco. • Improve your overall health. Test Your Knowledge You need to brush and floss to prevent tooth decay, cavities, and gum disease.