How Flossing Can Boost Your Immune System

If you’re looking to boost your immune system and fight back against common viruses like the flu and the common cold, you may not be sure where to start. Should you get more sleep? Take vitamin C supplements? Get more exercise?

All of those things are thought to boost your immune system. But there is one way to boost your immune system that you may not have thought of. Flossing every day! In this blog from Seattle Dental Co., we’ll take a look at how flossing every day can help boost your immune system, and give you a few flossing tips. 

Flossing Boosts Your Immune System By Removing Bacteria That Brushing Can’t Reach 

Did you know that brushing alone cleans only about 60% of each tooth’s surface? Toothbrushes simply can’t reach between the little cracks and crevices that are between each of our teeth. So even if you’re brushing every day, you’re still leaving behind a lot of bacteria and plaque unless you floss.

And, over time, this plaque and bacteria can build up and attack your gums, causing them to become inflamed and swollen as your immune system responds, and sends immune cells to respond to the infection.

If your body is sending immune cells to your mouth to fight an infection, these cells can’t be used elsewhere to defend your body from other threats. So by cleaning your mouth properly and removing bacteria by flossing, you’ll be able to strengthen your immune system and protect yourself from illnesses more effectively. 

Get The Most Out Of Flossing – Our Top Tips

So, flossing can boost your immune system. But how can you make sure you get the maximum benefits from your flossing routine? Here are a few top tips.

• Floss at least once per day, every day – Flossing once every few days or every week won’t provide you with the maximum benefits of flossing. To maximize removal of plaque and bacteria, you’ll need to floss at least once per day, every day. You can floss whenever you want throughout the day, but make sure you stay consistent and floss every day!
• Use proper technique – Many people who don’t floss haven’t learned proper flossing technique. If it’s been a long time since you’ve flossed or you are learning how to do it for the first time, take a look at this video guide for an overview of the basics.
  
• Rinse with mouthwash after flossing – If you want to incorporate mouthwash into your oral care routine, it’s a great idea to use mouthwash after flossing. Rinsing with mouthwash will help remove plaque and food particles that have been loosened during the flossing process. 
  

Keep Your Immune System Healthy – Add Flossing To Your Daily Routine

Great oral hygiene can help boost your immune system and keep you healthy, and flossing is a key part of at-home dental care. So if you want to avoid getting sick, remember to floss! And if you need a six-month oral exam and teeth cleaning to make sure your mouth is healthy, Seattle Dental Co. is here to help. Contact us online to schedule an appointment with Dr. Belinda Song or Dr. Amanda Guerrero, or give us a call at (206) 284-4412.