How flossing can add years to your life

It’s no surprise that more than a third of Americans surveyed would rather clean their toilet than floss their teeth.¹ Flossing takes time, patience, and is probably the last thing you want to do at the end of a long day.

But what if the benefits of flossing went beyond just fighting dental plaque? What if making it a part of your nightly routine could do so much as help you live longer?

According to a study by the CDC, it very well can.² In fact, those who make flossing a part of their everyday routine live an average of 6.4 years longer than those who don’t. This is most likely due to the fact that flossing prevents gum disease and heart disease—both factors that contribute to a shorter lifespan.

If you’re interested in reaping these life-lengthening benefits, here are some tips to make flossing a regular part of your dental routine:

• Keep your floss in easy reach—By keeping your floss on your bathroom counter or in a drawer you regularly open, you’re more likely to remember to use it.
• Aim to floss at least once a day—It takes an average of 66 days to build a new habit. While the first few weeks may be tough, flossing will become second nature before you know it.
• Learn proper flossing techniques—One common obstacle to flossing is not knowing proper flossing techniques. Simply wrap the floss around the side of your tooth in a C-shape and move it away from your gumline in a downward motion.

Next time you’re questioning whether it’s worth it to floss, keep this study in mind. Who knew the secret to a long and happy life was right in your bathroom this whole time? 

1. https://drugstorenews.com/beauty/study-more-third-americans-would-rather-clean-toilets-floss-daily

2. https://www.businessinsider.com/the-links-between-flossing-and-longevity-2015-6