Only 30% of people floss daily, yet flossing prevents cavities, gum disease, and bad breath that brushing alone can't reach. If you've never flossed or aren't sure you're doing it right, this guide is for you.
💡 Why Flossing Matters
Your toothbrush only cleans about 60% of tooth surfaces. The remaining 40% — the spaces between teeth — require flossing. Skipping floss is like washing only 3 walls of a room!
Step-by-Step Flossing Technique
Step 1: Take Enough Floss
Break off about 18 inches (45 cm) of floss. Wind most of it around your middle fingers, leaving 2-3 inches to work with. This gives you fresh floss for each tooth.
Step 2: Hold Properly
Hold the floss taut between your thumbs and index fingers. Keep about 1-2 inches of floss between your hands for control.
Step 3: Guide Gently
Use a gentle rubbing motion to guide the floss between teeth. Never snap the floss into gums — this can cause injury and bleeding.
Step 4: Make a C-Shape
When floss reaches the gum line, curve it into a C-shape against one tooth. Slide it gently into the space between gum and tooth.
Step 5: Clean Both Sides
Slide floss up and down, hugging the tooth surface. Then curve around the adjacent tooth and repeat. Each gap has two tooth surfaces!
Step 6: Use Fresh Floss
As you move to each tooth, unwind fresh floss from your fingers. Using dirty floss just moves bacteria around.
Types of Floss: Which to Choose?
| Type | Best For |
|---|---|
| Waxed floss | Tight teeth, beginners (slides easily) |
| Unwaxed floss | Normal spacing, better grip |
| Dental tape | Wider gaps, sensitive gums |
| Floss picks | On-the-go, children, dexterity issues |
| Water flosser | Braces, implants, bridges, arthritis |
| Super floss | Braces, bridges (has stiff threader) |
Common Flossing Mistakes
- Snapping floss into gums: Causes bleeding and pain. Use gentle rubbing motion
- Only going up and down: You need to wrap around each tooth in a C-shape
- Using same section repeatedly: Unwind fresh floss for each gap
- Skipping back teeth: Molars are most cavity-prone — don't skip them!
- Flossing too fast: Take time. 2-3 minutes is needed to do all teeth properly
- Stopping when gums bleed: Bleeding means you NEED to floss more, not less
How Often Should You Floss?
Once daily is enough. It takes bacteria 24-36 hours to form plaque, so daily flossing prevents buildup. Most dentists recommend flossing at night before bed so food doesn't sit between teeth overnight.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I floss before or after brushing?
Floss before brushing. This loosens debris between teeth so brushing can remove it more effectively. It also allows fluoride from toothpaste to reach between teeth better.
Why do my gums bleed when I floss?
Bleeding gums usually indicate gum inflammation (gingivitis) caused by plaque buildup. Continue flossing gently — bleeding should stop within 1-2 weeks as gums get healthier. If bleeding persists, see a dentist.
Is it too late to start flossing?
It's never too late! Starting at any age provides benefits. Gums may bleed initially, but they'll become healthier with consistent flossing. Even starting in your 40s-60s can prevent tooth loss.
Are water flossers as good as regular floss?
Water flossers are effective alternatives, especially for people with braces, implants, or dexterity issues. Studies show they're comparable to string floss for removing plaque. Use whatever method you'll actually do daily.
Time for a Professional Cleaning?
Even with perfect flossing, you need professional cleaning every 6 months to remove tartar.
Book Cleaning AppointmentOr call: +91-7675850909
Dr. P. Srujana Krishna
MDS, Endodontist & Founder
Founder & Chief Dentist at Janani Dental Care, Hafeezpet.