You just wrapped up your six-month dental checkup and everything looks great—until your hygienist says those familiar words: “Everything looks great, but make sure you’re flossing every day!”
As you smile, nod, and roll your eyes on the way out, you may be wondering:“Is flossing really that important?”
Spoiler alert: Yes, it is.
Why Is Flossing So Important?
Flossing is one of the most effective ways to prevent long-term dental issues. Even if you brush twice a day and use an alcohol-free mouth rinse, you’re still missing areas between the teeth and just under the gumline where bacteria can hide. That’s where flossing comes in.
According to the American Dental Association (ADA), “Cleaning between teeth removes plaque that can lead to cavities or gum disease from the areas where a toothbrush can’t reach.”
Flossing is more than just an optional step in your oral hygiene routine—it’s one of the most powerful tools you have to maintain long-term dental health. Here are a few reasons why flossing matters:
1. Removes Plaque Between Teeth
Brushing only reaches about 60% of tooth surfaces. Flossing removes plaque and food particles from tight spaces between teeth and beneath the gumline where your toothbrush can’t reach.
2. Prevents Gum Disease
Plaque that isn’t removed turns into tartar, which irritates gums and leads to gingivitis (early-stage gum disease). If left untreated, gingivitis can advance to periodontal disease, which may cause gum recession, bone loss, and even tooth loss.
3. Reduces the Risk of Cavities
Most cavities form between teeth—right where flossing helps. By removing plaque in these areas daily, you greatly reduce the risk of tooth decay and the need for fillings or crowns.
4. Improves Overall Oral Health
Healthy gums are essential for a healthy mouth. Flossing helps reduce inflammation, keep your breath fresh, and maintain a beautiful, clean smile.
5. Supports Whole-Body Health
Gum disease is linked to serious health conditions like:
- Heart disease
- Diabetes complications
- Stroke
- Respiratory infections
By flossing daily, you’re not just protecting your mouth—you’re supporting your entire body.
What Happens If You Don’t Floss?
Neglecting to floss daily can lead to a variety of oral health issues, including:
- Gingivitis and gum disease
- Bad breath
- Periodontal disease
- Tooth loss
- Tooth decay
- Pain while chewing or biting
- Tooth sensitivity
- Dry mouth or gum irritation
Flossing helps prevent these problems by removing food particles and plaque before they harden into tartar and cause gum inflammation or decay.
Signs You Might Not Be Flossing Enough
If you notice any of the following symptoms, it could be a sign you need to floss more consistently:
- Bleeding when brushing or flossing
- Red or inflamed gums
- Gum tenderness or soreness
- A receding gumline
If you experience these symptoms, don’t panic—just bring it up at your next dental visit.
How to Floss (The Right Way)
Flossing doesn’t take long, and done correctly, it can make a major difference in your oral health. Flossing takes less than a minute, and doing it correctly can prevent years of dental problems. Here’s the ADA-approved technique:
Step 1: Break Off About 18 Inches of Floss
Wind most of the floss around the middle finger of one hand, and the rest around the opposite middle finger to take up used floss.
Step 2: Hold the Floss Tightly
Use your thumbs and index fingers to hold the floss tightly. Leave about 1–2 inches of floss between your fingers.
Step 3: Gently Guide the Floss Between Your Teeth
Using a gentle sawing motion, slide the floss between two teeth. Avoid snapping the floss into your gums.
Step 4: Curve the Floss into a “C” Shape
Wrap the floss around the base of each tooth, sliding it just beneath the gumline. This is where bacteria like to hide.
Step 5: Move the Floss Up and Down
Rub the floss up and down against the tooth surface, not just between the teeth. Be sure to floss both sides of the space.
Step 6: Use a Clean Section for Each Tooth
As you move from one tooth to the next, unspool fresh floss so you’re not redistributing plaque.
Step 7: Don’t Forget the Back Teeth
Be sure to floss behind your last molars—these spots are often missed and prone to buildup.
Tip: Floss before you brush so your fluoride toothpaste has a better chance to reach between your teeth!
Questions About Flossing?
At Bassett Creek Dental in Golden Valley, we love helping our patients build habits that protect their smiles for life. If you’re not sure which floss to use or how to help your kids floss, just ask at your next visit. We’re here to help—without the guilt trip.
Call us at 763.546.1301 or schedule your next cleaning online.