Why flossing matters more than you think

Most people know they should floss. Far fewer actually do it consistently. But flossing isn't just a nice-to-have — it's one of the most important things you can do for your oral and overall health.

What flossing actually does

Your toothbrush can only reach about 60% of your tooth surfaces. The tight spaces between teeth — where cavities and gum disease often start — are virtually unreachable without floss.

When you floss, you're doing three things:

• Removing plaque — The sticky film of bacteria that forms between teeth and along the gumline
• Preventing tartar — Plaque that isn't removed hardens into tartar, which can only be removed professionally
• Stimulating gums — Flossing increases blood flow to gum tissue, helping keep it healthy and resilient

The link between flossing and gum disease

Gingivitis — the earliest stage of gum disease — is almost always caused by plaque buildup along and below the gumline. Symptoms include red, swollen gums that bleed when you brush or floss.

Left untreated, gingivitis progresses to periodontitis, which can cause gum recession, bone loss, and eventually tooth loss. Regular flossing is one of the most effective ways to prevent this progression.

"If your gums bleed when you floss, that's not a sign to stop — it's a sign you need to keep going. Healthy gums don't bleed."

— Dr. Goli Khorsandian

Flossing and your overall health

Research increasingly shows a connection between oral health and systemic conditions. Gum disease has been linked to:

• Heart disease and stroke
• Diabetes complications
• Respiratory infections
• Adverse pregnancy outcomes

While flossing alone won't prevent these conditions, maintaining healthy gums is an important part of your overall wellness.

How to floss properly

Technique matters more than you might think:

1. Use about 18 inches of floss, winding most around your middle fingers
2. Hold the floss taut between your thumbs and index fingers
3. Gently guide the floss between teeth using a rubbing motion — never snap it into the gums
4. Curve the floss into a C-shape against one tooth and slide it beneath the gumline
5. Use a clean section of floss for each tooth

Alternatives to traditional floss

If string floss is difficult for you, consider these options:

• Water flossers — Effective for people with braces, implants, or dexterity issues
• Floss picks — More convenient, though less effective at curving around teeth
• Interdental brushes — Small brushes designed for wider gaps between teeth

The bottom line

Flossing once a day — ideally before bed — can significantly reduce your risk of cavities, gum disease, and the systemic health issues associated with poor oral hygiene. It takes about two minutes. Your future self will thank you.