What Happens If You Don’t Floss Your Teeth?

No one likes to floss their teeth. So why bother? Your dentist in Sugar Land, TX, will tell you why. And you’re not going to like it! Keep reading to learn what happens when you don’t floss.

If you choose not to floss your teeth regularly (or at all), you can expect one or more consequences.

Bleeding Gums

When you don’t floss, plaque will build up on your gums. This causes inflammation, which leads to bleeding gums. Then you will need to schedule a dental exam in Sugar Land, TX to fix them.

Bad Breath

When you don’t floss, food particles remain stuck between your teeth. That food is then broken down by bacteria. Your mouth will then produce sulfur compounds, leading to bad breath.

Loose Teeth

When you don’t floss, your mouth accumulates bacteria. That bacteria will cause inflammation. Then, that inflammation causes the collagen and fibers that hold your teeth together to break down. And that will eventually cause your teeth to become loose and/or fall out.

Chronic Health Problems

When you don’t floss, you risk oral bacteria spreading to other parts of your body. This could result in any number of chronic health problems, such as heart disease, diabetes, dementia, and even weight gain.

Pneumonia

If you don’t floss, bacteria and a buildup of pathogens occur between your teeth. Your mouth leads to your lungs. So, the buildup of bacteria and pathogens can cause pneumonia.

Pregnancy Issues

If you’re pregnant and don’t floss your teeth, the buildup of oral bacteria can spread to your developing baby. This is because that bacteria will be absorbed into your bloodstream and spread throughout your body.

Increased Chances of Getting HPV

Believe it or not, if you don’t floss your teeth, you up your chances of getting HPV. The CDC did a study that found people who don’t take care of their oral health are twice as likely to get HPV than those who do.

Looking for a Dentist in Sugar Land, TX?

Routine dental appointments are a must if you want to preserve your oral health. Please Contact First Dental Family and Cosmetic Dentistry today to schedule an exam. You don’t want to risk losing your teeth! So take care of them now to avoid problems later.