Introduction

Flossing is an important part of maintaining good oral hygiene. Not only does brushing help to remove plaque and food from the visible parts of your teeth, but flossing helps to clean the areas between your teeth. As flossing can be difficult to do, food can get trapped in the small gaps between your teeth leading to plaque build up along the gum line and between teeth. By learning how to floss your teeth correctly you can help clean these areas and keep your teeth and gums as healthy as possible.

Dental floss is a thin string which can be gently pushed between your teeth to help remove plaque from the areas which may not be fully reached by your toothbrush. By flossing regularly with brushing using fluoride toothpaste, you can help reduce the risk of gum irritation, tooth decay between your teeth and bad breath.

Many people do not like flossing as it can be uncomfortable and difficult to do. However, with the correct technique, it can be made easier for you. You should always try to guide the floss gently between your teeth and not push it into tight areas.

This article will tell you how to floss your teeth correctly, which type of floss to use, how to avoid common mistakes and how to make flossing a regular part of your daily oral hygiene routine.

Why is flossing important?

Flossing helps to remove plaque and food from between your teeth and under the gum line. As it can be difficult to reach these areas with a standard toothbrush, even with careful brushing for 2 minutes.

Plaque is a sticky film which builds up on your teeth. It contains bacteria, and if left to build up, the bacteria will react with the sugars in your food and drinks to create acids which can damage your enamel. Plaque can also build up close to your gums and cause gingivitis (early stage gum disease).

By flossing regularly, you can help keep your oral health in check by:

Helping prevent tooth decay between your teeth – removing plaque from between your teeth which may not be fully reached by your toothbrush bristles.
Keeping your gums healthy – removing plaque from close to your gums to help reduce irritation, redness and sensitivity.
Helping reduce bad breath – food and bacteria can get trapped between your teeth causing bad breath.
Helps with brushing – flossing and brushing help to clean different areas of your teeth.
Helps keep your teeth healthy long term – by regularly cleaning between your teeth you can help reduce plaque build up which can lead to common dental issues.

Flossing is particularly important if your teeth are close together, however nearly everyone can benefit from cleaning between their teeth.

Flossing should not be seen as an alternative to brushing, using fluoride toothpaste and attending regular check ups with your dentist.

Most people should aim to clean between their teeth once a day. Try to do it at the same time everyday.

Which floss should I use?

Using the correct floss can help make cleaning between your teeth easier. There are a variety of products available, and the best option for you will depend on how close your teeth are, your dexterity and if you have any dental appliances.

Some common options are:

Waxed floss – A thin floss with wax to help it glide between close teeth.
Regular floss – A thinner floss without wax. May be suitable for some.
Dental tape – A wider and flatter floss. May be more comfortable for people with larger gaps.
PTFE floss – This floss is made from a smooth and strong material. Can be useful for some to help it glide through tight spaces.
Floss picks – A short piece of floss attached to a small handle. Can be a good option for those who find floss difficult to handle.

Those with dental appliances such as braces, bridges, implants and other dental appliances may need to use specialist floss, threaders, inter-dental brushes or a water floss.

Inter-dental brushes can be a great option if you have larger gaps. However, make sure the brush fits comfortably.

There is no one ‘best’ floss for everyone. The most helpful option will be one which fits your teeth and can be used regularly with the correct technique.

If you unsure which product to use, your dentist or hygienist can recommend the best option for you.

How to floss your teeth correctly

It is important to use the correct technique when flossing. You want to clean the sides of your teeth without causing any damage to your sensitive gums.

Follow the steps below to help you floss correctly.

Step 1: Cut the correct length of floss.

Cut around 18 inches (45cm) of floss.

Step 2: Wrap around your fingers.

Wrap most of the floss around the middle finger of one hand and a small amount around the middle finger of the other. Leave around 1-2 inches between your fingers.Hold the floss with your thumbs and index fingers.

Step 3: Gently push between your teeth.

Gently push the floss between your teeth. Try not to snap it into your gums.If the floss gets caught or is tight, go slower and gently guide it through.

Step 4: Curve around one tooth.

Once the floss has gone through the contact point, gently curve it around one side of the tooth.

Step 5: Gently push under your gums.

Gently push the floss under your gums. Only push as far as it can go comfortably.

Step 6: Move up and down.

Gently move the floss up and down the side of the tooth. Focus on removing plaque.

Step 7: Curve around the other tooth.

Curve the floss around the other tooth and move it up and down. Make sure you clean both sides.

Step 8: Move to the next gap.

Gently pull the floss out and use a clean section of floss. Repeat this between all your teeth including your back teeth.

Step 9: Continue with brushing.

Once you have finished flossing, continue with brushing using fluoride toothpaste. Do not rinse with lots of water, just spit out. This will leave more fluoride on your teeth.

With practice you will find it easier and will only take a few minutes.

When should I floss?

The most important thing is to floss regularly using the correct technique. However, finding a time which works best for you can help you form a long term habit.

Many people find it easier to floss in the evening to help remove any food and plaque which has built up throughout the day. However some people find it easier to floss in the morning. Either time is fine as long as you are flossing regularly.

Should I floss before or after brushing?

Flossing before brushing may help to loosen any plaque and food to help remove it. Some research suggests that flossing before brushing can help increase the amount of fluoride retained between your teeth. However it is important to floss regularly with the correct technique.

A good routine would be:

Floss gently between all your teeth.
Brush for 2 minutes using fluoride toothpaste.
Spit out the toothpaste. Do not rinse with large amounts of water.
Clean your tongue if needed.
Use any other products your dentist recommends.

Unless your dentist or dental professional recommend a specific routine, most people will find flossing once a day is enough.Try to floss at around the same time everyday. This can help you associate it with another activity such as getting ready for bed.If you miss a time, just continue with your usual routine. Do not try to over compensate by flossing too vigorously. This can cause irritation to your gums.

Common mistakes to avoid

Even if you floss regularly you may miss some areas or cause irritation to your gums. Knowing what common mistakes to avoid can help you floss more effectively.

1. Snapping floss into your gums.

This can cause damage to your sensitive gums. Try to gently move the floss through tight contact points.

2. Not flossing between your back teeth.

Your back teeth can suffer from plaque build up. Make sure you are flossing between your molars.

3. Reusing the same section of floss.

This can cause the debris to be moved around. Wind the floss around your fingers to reveal a clean section.

4. Stopping when your gums bleed.

You may experience some bleeding when you first start flossing. Especially if your gums are irritated. However by gently flossing regularly you can help improve your gum health. If your gums continue to bleed, see your dentist.

5. Applying too much pressure.

Flossing should not be done vigorously. Generally gently flossing will be more effective and will not cause damage.

6. Not flossing regularly.

If you are not flossing regularly you will not be controlling plaque as effectively. Try to find a simple routine.

7. Thinking brushing is enough.

Your toothbrush will not be able to fully clean all the inter-dental areas.

By avoiding these mistakes you can floss more comfortably and effectively.

What should I do if my gums bleed when flossing?

It can be worrying if your gums bleed when flossing. However, occasionally it may not mean you are flossing incorrectly. A common reason for this could be due to gingivitis. This occurs when plaque builds up around your gums. Your gums may become inflamed, causing them to become red, swollen, sensitive and more likely to bleed when brushing and flossing.

If your gums are bleeding, try:

Continue gently cleaning between your teeth.
Make sure you are moving the floss slowly.
Use a soft bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste.
Clean between your teeth everyday using a comfortable technique.
If your gums continue to bleed see your dentist.

Not all bleeding will be due to incorrect flossing. It can also be due to gum disease, certain medications and other oral health issues. If you are experiencing persistent bad breath, receding gums, loose teeth or recurring sensitivity then it is important to see a professional. If you are on blood thinning medication or have a medical condition which affects bleeding then speak to your dental/medical professional for personalized advice.

With the correct daily care and professional advice many early gum issues can be managed.

How can I make flossing a regular habit?

You do not need any complicated products or routines to make flossing a habit. Making a few simple changes can help. Keep your floss in an easy to reach place such as near your toothbrush. Pick a time to floss everyday. Try to link it to something you already do such as right before brushing your teeth at night .If you find traditional floss difficult to handle try using floss picks or other inter-dental cleaning products. If you have limited dexterity in your hands then a handled product may be easier.

Other tips:

Keep an extra pack of floss in your travel bag.
Start with a few teeth and gradually work your way around your mouth.
Use a mirror to make sure you are cleaning your back teeth.
Ask your hygienist to show you how to floss next time you visit.
If a particular floss keeps tearing or getting stuck try changing your technique. Speak to a dentist to see why this may be happening.
Parents can help children learn how to floss at an appropriate age. Once their teeth start touching they will generally need some help from an adult to clean between their teeth safely.
Remember there is no competition. It is more important to gently clean thoroughly.

Conclusion

Learning how to floss your teeth correctly is an easy but important step to improving your oral health. Dental floss can help reach the areas between your teeth which may not be reached by your toothbrush bristles. This helps remove plaque and food to keep your gums healthy. To ensure you get the best results use enough floss, gently guide it between your teeth, curve it around each tooth and clean both sides of each gap. Avoid snapping it against your gums and applying too much pressure. Pick a product which fits your teeth and abilities. Make sure you are cleaning between your teeth regularly as part of your daily oral hygiene routine. Combine with brushing twice a day using fluoride toothpaste, eating a balanced diet and visiting your dentist regularly.

If you are experiencing persistent bleeding, discomfort or difficulty cleaning around your dental appliances then speak to a dental professional.

The key to flossing effectively is using the correct technique. Make sure you are cleaning between all your teeth and be consistent. This can help improve your gum health and keep your mouth cleaner.

How to Floss Your Teeth Correctly: A Complete Guide Today