The Importance of Flossing and How to Do It

We all hear it at the dentist: “Don’t forget to floss!” But have you ever wondered why flossing is so important—and how to do it effectively?

At Burleson Dental, we want our patients to feel empowered with the knowledge and tools to take great care of their teeth and gums. Flossing may seem like a small habit, but it plays a huge role in your long-term oral health.

Why Flossing Matters

Brushing your teeth is essential, but it only cleans about 60% of your tooth surfaces. The other 40%—the tight spaces between your teeth and under your gumline—can only be cleaned by flossing.

Skipping flossing allows plaque, bacteria, and food particles to build up in those hard-to-reach spots. Over time, this can lead to:

• Cavities between teeth

• Gum inflammation (gingivitis)

• Bad breath

• Advanced gum disease (periodontitis)

• Tooth loss

Daily flossing helps prevent these issues and keeps your gums healthy, your breath fresh, and your smile bright.

How to Floss Properly

It’s not just about whether you floss—it’s also how you floss. Here’s a simple step-by-step guide to make sure you’re doing it right:

✅ Step 1: Use the Right Amount

Start with about 18 inches of dental floss. Wrap most of it around your middle fingers, leaving about 1–2 inches to work with.

✅ Step 2: Gently Slide the Floss Between Teeth

Use your thumbs and index fingers to guide the floss between your teeth. Move gently to avoid snapping the floss against your gums.

✅ Step 3: Curve the Floss

Wrap the floss into a “C” shape around the side of one tooth. Gently slide it up and down, going just below the gumline. Then repeat on the other side of the gap.

✅ Step 4: Use a Clean Section

Use a new, clean section of floss as you move from tooth to tooth.

✅ Step 5: Don’t Forget the Back Teeth

Be sure to floss behind your last molars—those areas are often forgotten but just as important.

Not a Fan of Traditional Floss? Try These Alternatives:

If string floss isn’t your thing, there are several tools that can make flossing easier and just as effective:

• Floss picks

• Soft picks or interdental brushes

• Water flossers (oral irrigators)

• Pre-threaded flossers (great for kids or those with limited dexterity)

Our team at Burleson Dental is happy to help you find the best flossing method for your needs.

How Often Should You Floss?

Once a day is ideal. Whether you floss in the morning or at night, before or after brushing—what matters most is consistency. Making it part of your daily routine will go a long way in keeping your mouth healthy for years to come.