Is It Really Important to Floss? Benefits You Didn’t Know

Short answer: Yes. Flossing matters. It helps your mouth and your overall health.

What flossing does

Floss removes plaque, food bits, and bacteria from between teeth and below the gumline. A toothbrush cannot reach these tight spaces.

If plaque stays between teeth, it can harden into tartar in 24–48 hours. Tartar can only be removed by a dental cleaning.

Why brushing alone isn’t enough

Brushing cleans most tooth surfaces, but not all. The parts between teeth and under the gums need floss. Flossing stops bacteria that cause cavities and gum problems.

Gum health

Gingivitis (mild gum disease) often starts between the teeth. Early signs include red, swollen, or bleeding gums. If your gums bleed when you start flossing, keep going. Gentle, daily flossing usually stops the bleeding within a week.

If gum disease gets worse, it can harm the bone that holds your teeth. It can also affect your overall health.

How flossing helps your whole body

• May lower some risks to heart health.
• Can help people with diabetes manage blood sugar.
• May improve pregnancy outcomes when gum health is better.
• Helps reduce bacteria that can reach the lungs.

Common flossing myths — single line answers

• "I don't get food stuck, so I don't need to floss." — Plaque is invisible; you still need to floss.
• "Flossing causes gaps." — Done gently, flossing protects gums and bone.
• "Water flossers replace string floss." — They help, especially with braces or implants. Many people benefit from both.
• "Flossing only before the dentist is enough." — Daily flossing is what keeps your mouth healthy.

How to floss — simple steps

1. Tear off about 18 inches of floss.
2. Wrap most around your middle fingers and hold 1–2 inches between your thumbs and forefingers.
3. Gently slide the floss between each tooth (don’t snap it).
4. Curve the floss into a “C” around each tooth and move up and down, under the gumline.
5. Use a clean section for each gap.

If string floss is hard to use, try floss picks, soft picks, interdental brushes, or a water flosser.

How often should you floss?

Once a day is enough for most people. Pick a time you will stick with. Flossing before brushing can help fluoride reach between teeth.

Signs you need to floss more

• Gums that bleed when you brush or floss
• Bad breath that won’t go away
• Buildup or stains between teeth
• Sensitivity or food getting stuck often

Flossing as you get older

Gums can pull back over time. That makes some areas easier to miss. Daily flossing helps protect these spots and keeps your smile longer.