Why Is Flossing Important, and How Often Should I Do It?

Why Is Flossing Important, and How Often Should I Do It?

Brushing your teeth twice a day is a great start to keeping your mouth healthy—but it’s not the whole picture. One important step that’s often skipped is flossing. If you’ve ever wondered whether flossing really makes a difference, the answer is yes—and here’s why.

What Does Flossing Actually Do?

Flossing removes plaque, food particles, and bacteria from the spaces between your teeth and along the gumline—areas your toothbrush can’t reach. Over time, plaque that isn't removed can harden into tartar, which may lead to:

• Cavities between teeth
• Gum inflammation or bleeding (gingivitis)
• Gum disease (periodontitis)
• Bad breath

Even if you don’t feel or see anything between your teeth, plaque builds up daily. Flossing helps prevent problems before they start.

How Often Should You Floss?

The American Dental Association recommends flossing once per day. The time of day isn’t as important as the consistency. Some people prefer to floss before bed so they go to sleep with a clean mouth, while others add it to their morning routine.

The key is to make it a daily habit, just like brushing.

Tips for Effective Flossing:

• Use about 18 inches of floss and wrap it around your fingers, leaving about an inch to work with
• Gently slide the floss between your teeth using a back-and-forth motion
• Curve the floss into a “C” shape around each tooth and slide it up and down
• Don’t forget the back side of your last molars
• Be gentle—avoid snapping the floss, which can damage your gums

If traditional floss is difficult to use, floss picks, interdental brushes, or water flossers can be helpful alternatives.

Common Questions:

“My gums bleed when I floss. Should I stop?”

Mild bleeding is common if you’re just starting out. It usually stops within a week or two as your gums get healthier. If bleeding continues, it’s a good idea to talk to your dentist.

“Can I just brush extra carefully instead of flossing?”

Unfortunately, no. Even with great brushing technique, you can’t reach the tight spaces between your teeth or just below the gumline—where plaque loves to hide.

Flossing once a day is one of the simplest and most effective things you can do for your oral health. It takes just a minute or two but can help prevent cavities, gum disease, and other dental issues down the road.

Adding flossing to your routine is a small step that leads to a healthier smile.

Need Help With Your Technique?

If you're unsure about how to floss properly or what type of floss is best for you, we're happy to help! At Martin Dentistry, our team is always here to answer your questions and guide you toward better oral habits.

Still Skipping the Floss? Let’s Talk!

Flossing might seem like a small step, but it has a huge impact on your dental health. At your next checkup, we’d love to help you get into a routine that works for you.

?? Serving Fishers and Broad Ripple with personalized, gentle dental care.

?? Fishers Office: 317-676-9588

?? Broad Ripple Office: 317-576-3600

Let us help you keep your smile healthy—one floss at a time!