Most of us know we should floss—but far fewer of us actually do it every day. At Complete Dental Care, we often see patients who brush twice daily but still deal with early gum disease, bad breath, or cavities between their teeth.
In nearly every case, there’s a simple explanation: flossing matters—more than you think.
Why Is Flossing So Important?
Brushing your teeth is a great start, but it only cleans the front, back, and chewing surfaces—not the tight spaces in between. That’s where plaque, food particles, and harmful bacteria like to hide.
Flossing every day:
- Removes plaque your toothbrush can’t reach
- Prevents gum inflammation, recession, and bleeding
- Helps prevent cavities between your teeth
- Freshens breath
- Reduces your risk of gum disease, which is linked to heart and whole-body health
Even in wellness-minded communities like Paradise Valley Village, Shadow Mountain Village, and Indian Bend, we see patients who underestimate how much flossing affects their long-term oral health.
How to Floss Effectively (Step-by-Step)
If you’re going to floss, you may as well do it right. Here’s how:
- Use about 18–24 inches of floss
Wrap most around your middle fingers, leaving about 1–2 inches to work with. - Gently guide the floss between your teeth
Avoid snapping—it can damage your gums. - Curve it into a “C” shape
Hug one side of the tooth, sliding gently below the gumline. - Rub up and down
Then repeat on the other side of the gap. Use clean floss for each space. - Don’t forget your back teeth!
They need just as much attention as the rest.
Tips for Making Flossing a Habit
- Floss at the same time each day—before bed is ideal.
- Keep floss visible on your bathroom counter as a reminder.
- Start with just 1–2 teeth per night to build consistency.
- Try floss picks or a water flosser if traditional floss is difficult.
- Make it part of your “wind-down” ritual—just like washing your face or turning off your phone.
❓ Common Questions About Flossing
What can happen if I don’t floss?
Skipping flossing allows plaque and food particles to build up where your toothbrush can’t reach. This can lead to:
- Cavities between your teeth
- Bad breath
- Red, swollen, or bleeding gums
- Gum disease (gingivitis and periodontitis)
- Bone loss or tooth loss in severe cases
Flossing daily is one of the simplest ways to protect your smile long-term.
Is flossing really more important than brushing?
They’re both essential. Flossing isn’t a substitute for brushing—it’s a complement. Without it, you’re leaving about 40% of your tooth surfaces uncleaned.
What kind of floss should I use?
- Tight teeth? Try waxed floss or glide-style floss.
- Braces or dental work? Use floss threaders or soft picks.
- Dexterity issues? A water flosser can be a great alternative.
Ask us during your next visit—we’ll recommend the best option for your smile.
Can I floss too hard?
Yes. Flossing should be gentle. Snapping the floss down or forcing it between teeth can damage your gums and cause recession. Always guide the floss carefully and hug each tooth with a gentle “C” shape.
Do kids need to floss?
Absolutely. As soon as two teeth touch, flossing becomes important. Helping your child floss early prevents decay between baby teeth and builds healthy habits that last into adulthood.
Keep Your Smile Healthy—One Tooth at a Time
At Complete Dental Care, we know small daily habits make a big difference. Whether you’re already a flossing pro or just getting started, we’re here to support you without judgment—and help you prevent the need for more serious treatments down the road.
If you’re due for a checkup or cleaning—or want to learn more about the right flossing tools for your needs—we’d love to help.
👉 Schedule your dental cleaning and checkup today
We’re proud to serve patients throughout North Phoenix, including Paradise Hills, Sun Ray Manor, Roadrunner Estates, and the communities near PV Mall.