If there’s one small habit that makes a big impact on oral health, it’s flossing. Yet for many, it’s rushed—or skipped altogether. Brushing only reaches about 60% of your tooth surfaces. The rest? That’s the job flossing does best.
Think of skipping flossing like mowing the lawn but never trimming the edges—you’ll get a lot of the job done, but the part you leave behind is where problems grow. Flossing is that finishing touch that keeps your whole smile healthy.
If you want a brighter smile, fresher breath, and healthier gums for the long haul, making flossing part of your daily routine is one of the smartest moves you can make.
Ready to learn more about flossing? We’ll dive into why it’s essential, how to do it correctly, what flossing tools are available beyond the traditional string, and how you can seamlessly fit it into your daily brushing routine. Whether you’re just starting out or improving your technique, this guide is for you.
Why flossing deserves a spot in your daily routine
Flossing isn’t just about dislodging stubborn food bits between your teeth (though that’s satisfying too). It’s about removing plaque—a sticky film of bacteria—that your toothbrush can’t reach. Left alone, this plaque can harden into tartar, cause gum inflammation, and lead to gum disease (gingivitis and periodontitis).
What does that mean for you?
Healthier gums: Bleeding gums during brushing may signal inflammation caused by plaque buildup. Regular flossing helps prevent this.
Fresher breath: Flossing clears out trapped food and bacteria, keeping your breath fresh.
Brighter smile: Healthy gums frame your teeth beautifully. Plus, removing plaque can help prevent yellowing between the teeth.
Lower dental costs: Preventive care like flossing helps reduce the need for costly treatments down the road.
Better overall health: Gum disease has been linked to other health conditions like diabetes and heart disease—another reason to floss daily.
The right way to floss
1. Start with about 45 cm of floss. Wind most of it around your middle fingers, leaving a few centimetres to work with.
2. Hold the floss tightly between your thumbs and forefingers, and gently slide it between your teeth using a back-and-forth motion.
3. Curve the floss into a “C” shape against the side of each tooth. Glide it gently under the gumline.
4. Use a clean section of floss for each tooth to avoid transferring bacteria.
5. Don’t snap or force the floss. If it’s tight between your teeth, try a thinner or waxed floss.
Flossing and brushing: The perfect pair
You might wonder—should I floss before or after brushing?
Flossing first helps loosen plaque and food debris, making your brushing more effective. Brushing afterwards helps clear away what you’ve dislodged and allows fluoride in your toothpaste to reach between your teeth more easily.
Make it a habit: Floss once daily and brush at least twice a day using a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Together, they’re a powerful duo in your oral care routine.
Not a fan of string floss? Try these helpful alternatives
If traditional string floss feels tricky or uncomfortable, you’re not alone. Many people find it hard to use, especially if they have braces, limited dexterity, or dental restorations. Fortunately, there are helpful alternatives that can make cleaning between your teeth more manageable.
However, it’s important to note that traditional string floss remains the most effective method for thoroughly removing plaque and debris from between the teeth and just below the gumline, especially when used correctly. Its ability to physically wipe the sides of each tooth gives it a unique edge in preventing plaque buildup and gum disease.
Still, if you’re unable to use string floss consistently, incorporating one or more of these tools is much better than skipping interdental cleaning altogether:
- Water flosser: Uses a gentle, pulsating stream of water to flush out food particles and plaque from between the teeth and under the gumline. It’s a great option for people with braces, implants, or sensitive gums.
- Interdental brushes: Small, brush-like tools designed to clean between the teeth, especially effective for those with wider gaps, bridges, or orthodontic appliances.
- Floss picks: Handy plastic tools with a short piece of floss stretched between two prongs. While not as thorough as traditional floss, they’re convenient for travel or for those who struggle with manual flossing techniques.
- Soft picks: Flexible, rubber-tipped cleaners that gently fit between teeth. These are particularly useful for tight spaces or sensitive gums, and may be more comfortable for some users.
The best tool is the one you’ll use consistently, so talk to your dentist about what suits your needs best, especially if you have unique dental concerns like crowns, bridges, or braces. They can help you develop a flossing routine that works for you while still keeping your oral health in top shape.
Your smile, your move
Oral health isn’t built in a day—it’s built in the little habits you repeat. Brush it, floss it, rinse it, and show up for those dental visits. Miss them, and it’s not just your teeth on the line—it’s your comfort, your confidence, your whole vibe.
Quick hit list:
- Floss every day in the way that works for you (no excuses).
- Keep oral health on your radar.
- Book that check-up and clean every 6 months (or when your dentist says so).
So go ahead, grab that floss! Your smile’s future is in your hands!
