For many, a visit to the dentist comes with one question: Have you been flossing? Too often, many have to admit that they haven’t flossed as much as they should.

The reasons are myriad. Some find it too time consuming or painful, or they just don’t see the benefits.

Dr. Eitan Polster of Middleburg Heights Family Dentistry said the consequences of not flossing can be more impactful than many think.

Flossing helps protect against gingivitis, which is a prominent issue in America, he said. If you don’t floss, gingivitis can progress to gum disease. At that point, the person starts to lose the bone support around their teeth as the bone shrinks away. As a result, teeth become loose and could fall out, he said.

Not flossing can also lead to other issues such as diabetes and heart disease, a

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