We’ve all sat in the dentist chair, ashamed to admit that we haven’t been flossing regularly. No matter how often we’re lectured about the importance of flossing, the majority of us can’t bring ourselves to commit to it. For most, cleaning the floor is probably more preferable than flossing. But here are five reasons that’ll get you to reach for the dental floss instead of the squeegee.

5 reasons why flossing is important:

1. Cleans where toothbrushes can’t
   Brushing, while crucial, only does a partial cleaning job, as it only reaches the front and back of our teeth. Flossing, meanwhile, cleans the sides of each tooth and near the gum line, important areas that our toothbrushes can’t clean and where bacteria breeds.
2. Breaks up the plaque
   Flossing breaks up the bacteria-filled plaque film that forms on our teeth. Plaque buildup hardens into tartar, which, if not removed, can lead to cavities, tooth decay and gum disease. Flossing is key in preventing plaque buildup
3. Leads to whiter smiles and fresher breath
   Stains from food and beverages tend to stick to plaque and tartar buildup. Regular flossing removes plaque, tartar and excess food particles, making our teeth look whiter. Flossing also maintains fresh breath.
4. Prevents bleeding gums.
   Although there may be blood at first, flossing actually minimizes bleeding gums. Once your gums are bacteria-free, your body’s blood cells won’t be sent to fight infection.
5. Enables overall health.
   Bacteria from gum disease has been linked to heart disease, diabetes and rheumatoid arthritis, among others. In a recent study, the Academic Centre for Dentistry Amsterdam found that in over 60,000 dental patients surveyed, those who had gum disease were twice as likely to have suffered a heart attack, severe chest pain or a stroke. Therefore, flossing not only maintains good gum health but helps reduce risk of serious health conditions as well as their high medical costs.

Even if you don’t feel an immediate difference when you floss, daily flossing contributes to good oral and overall health