Flossing and Longevity: How a Simple Habit Could Help You Live Longer
You already know flossing is great for your teeth, but what if it could actually help you live longer? It might sound surprising, but more and more studies are revealing just how closely our oral health is tied to our overall well-being. At Pier Dental, we’re passionate about helping you achieve not only a healthy smile but a healthier life. Let’s take a closer look at how flossing improves health and why it’s one of the most important daily habits you can form.
The Mouth-Body Connection
Your mouth isn’t an isolated part of your body—it’s actually a gateway to your entire system. Harmful bacteria from untreated gum disease (also known as periodontal disease) can enter the bloodstream, causing inflammation that affects organs like the heart, lungs, and even the brain.
Recent research shows that people with periodontal disease may be at increased risk for:
- Heart disease
- Stroke
- Diabetes
- Respiratory issues
- Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia
In fact, the American Heart Association has reported that individuals with gum disease are nearly twice as likely to suffer from a heart attack compared to those with healthy gums.
What Flossing Really Does
Brushing your teeth is essential, but it only cleans about 60% of your tooth surfaces. Flossing reaches the areas your toothbrush can’t—removing food particles and plaque from between the teeth and under the gumline. Doing this daily helps prevent the buildup of harmful bacteria, which in turn helps prevent gum disease and the complications that come with it.
The benefits of flossing daily include:
- Reduced plaque buildup
- Lower inflammation in the gums
- Better support for heart and immune system health
- Potentially lower healthcare costs in the long run
Flossing and Life Expectancy: The Big Picture
While it’s hard to pinpoint an exact number of years flossing might add to your life, one frequently quoted (but not peer-reviewed) claim suggests up to six extra years. Although that specific stat is more motivational than scientific, it highlights a very real truth: consistent oral hygiene can support a longer, healthier life.
Multiple studies have shown that poor oral hygiene in older adults is associated with increased risk of systemic diseases and mortality. A 2021 study published in Scientific Reports found that oral health problems significantly correlated with higher all-cause and cardiovascular mortality in older populations. View Study
If you’re wondering how flossing improves health, remember that it’s not just about your gums—it’s about your entire body.
Quick Tips for Long-Term Oral Health
Here are a few simple habits that can make a big difference:
- Floss once a day (before or after brushing is up to you)
- Brush twice a day for two minutes each time
- Use a fluoride toothpaste
- Rinse with an antibacterial mouthwash
- Schedule regular cleanings and checkups at Pier Dental
Your Health Starts with Your Smile
At Pier Dental, we believe preventive care is powerful care. Our team is here to support you in building healthy habits that benefit your mouth and your body. If it’s been a while since your last cleaning, or if you have questions about how flossing improves health, give us a call. We’re happy to help!
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Because the little things—like the benefits of flossing daily—can make a big difference.
