Do you brush twice a day, use a mouthwash, and still struggle with bad breath or surprise cavities?

If so, the problem may be caused by inconsistent flossing. Most people skip flossing and those who do floss, often don’t do it right, leaving behind plaque and food debris.

The good news? Flossing properly takes just a couple of minutes a day and can make a big difference. 

Read on to find out common flossing mistakes, the right technique and the best tools to keep your pearly whites and gums in top shape.

Common Flossing Mistakes To Avoid

Flossing isn’t just about sliding a string between your teeth, it requires the right technique to be effective. 

Common mistakes people make when flossing:

• Flossing too aggressively (can cause gum irritation).
• Reusing the same section of floss (spreads bacteria around).
• Skipping the back teeth (leaves plaque on the molars).
• Only flossing occasionally (allows plaque/tartar buildup).
• Not using the right floss for your teeth (reduces effectiveness).

The most common example is flossing too aggressively, wherein the floss snaps into your gums and causes bleeding and irritation.

Flossing can be a time-consuming, inconvenient exercise for some, especially for those with braces or other dental work like bridges or implants, resulting in other common mistakes like skipping the back of your teeth and reusing the same section of the floss. However, alternate methods of flossing can help navigate these barriers.

If any of these situations ring a bell, you’ll now discover why flossing is non-negotiable for a healthy, bright smile and what might turn out to be the best floss for you.

Why Flossing Is Essential

The truth is – our toothbrush merely scrubs the surface of our teeth, meaning the smaller areas between our teeth and below the gum line are left uncleaned. 

If you’re not flossing correctly, you’re allowing bacteria to flourish, which can cause trouble for your oral health later on. 

Plaque builds up over time creating a soft, sticky film made of bacteria mainly found on the teeth’s surface. If plaque is not removed, it can harden to form tartar. At this point, tartar removal is only possible by a dentist. We recommend professional teeth scaling and cleaning once or twice a year. 

Ultimately, daily flossing helps prevent:

• Plaque build-up
• Tooth decay
• Halitosis (chronic bad breath)
• Gum disease

The Australian Dental Association (ADA) recommends that adults and children floss at least once a day as part of a good oral health routine.

If you are bleeding when you floss, continue to floss daily. If your gums persist in bleeding despite having a daily flossing routine, consult with your dentist to ensure that there are no underlying concerns.

Choosing The Right Dental Floss

Discovering the right floss that is most suitable for you can matter more than you might think. The type of flossing you do depends on your dental needs, especially when you have tight spaces between teeth bridgework or braces. 

Waxed Vs. Unwaxed Floss

Waxed floss has a thin layer of wax, which helps it slide between teeth easily. It’s a great option for those with narrow gaps between their teeth, lessening the risk of fraying or breaking. The wax covering does make it a little bit thicker, so this could pose a challenge to those with crowded teeth.

Unwaxed floss, in contrast, consists of dozens of fine strands. Since it doesn’t have a wax coating, it’s thinner and easier to slide into tight spaces. However, there is a tendency to split if the teeth are packed too tightly together. 

Other Types Of Dental Floss And Flossing Aids

If the standard method of flossing doesn’t appeal to you, there are alternative ways to keep your teeth clean such as:

If traditional flossing is challenging, consider flossing aids like floss picks, electric flossers, or water flossers.

The best floss for you depends on your unique dental needs. From teeth that are closely spaced, to braces, there’s something for everyone in the floss department to help make this step easier and more effective.

How To Floss Properly

Mastering the right technique is key to effective flossing. By flossing daily, you can prevent gum disease, cavities, and bad breath, keeping your smile healthy and fresh.

Follow these simple steps to ensure you’re flossing properly and getting the most out of your oral care routine.

With these proper flossing steps, you’ll be on your way to achieving great oral hygiene. It only takes a few minutes but goes a long way in keeping your teeth and gums in top condition. 

Just be careful to floss gently and regularly, and ask your dentist for tips if you’re not sure how. Your smile will thank you!

Should You Floss Before Or After Brushing?

This is one of the most hotly debated flossing questions. Some experts say you should floss before you brush, so the plaque can be loosened and the fluoride from your toothpaste can get in between teeth. Some people like to floss after brushing to clean up any remaining food particles.

The most important thing? Floss once a day whenever it fits into your routine.

Flossing For Different Age Groups

Flossing For Kids

Floss as soon as your child’s teeth start to touch. Teaching good flossing techniques from a young age helps develop healthy dental habits for life. To improve the experience, consider kid-friendly floss or flavoured floss picks. Monitor them until they can properly floss on their own.

Flossing For Seniors

As we age, clearing away plaque between the teeth can become difficult to manage, particularly for those with arthritis or limited dexterity. Floss holders, water flossers and interdental brushes are easier options for older adults to clean those hard-to-reach areas.

A Healthy Smile Starts With Flossing

One easy yet essential oral hygiene practice is to floss your teeth to keep them healthy. Regular flossing reduces plaque and decreases the risk of cavities, gum disease, and bad breath. 

Whether you favour floss, floss picks or water flossers, the key is to be consistent and do what fits your lifestyle.

Still unsure about your flossing technique or need guidance on the right tools? Get in touch and book an appointment with one of our experts to assess your flossing routine and level up your oral hygiene.

FAQs

• How often should I floss my teeth?
  Floss once a day. Routine flossing prevents plaque from hardening and causing other problems.

• Can flossing too much damage my gums?
  Yes, flossing too vigorously or more often than you need to can irritate gums and may cause bleeding. Apply with gentle pressure and use the right technique.

• What should I do if my gums bleed when I floss?
  Bleeding gums are often caused by inflammation from not flossing. Keep flossing gently and the bleeding should subside in a few days. If it persists, consult your dentist.

• Is water flossing as effective as traditional flossing?
  Water flossers are a wonderful addition to traditional flossing, but they are not a complete substitute for your string floss. They are particularly effective for patients who wear braces or have limited dexterity.

• What’s the best type of floss for sensitive gums?
  Soft, waxed floss is easier to manoeuvre and gentler on gums. Flosses containing soothing ingredients like aloe vera may be better for sensitive gums. For personalised guidance, book an initial consultation with Smile Place to get expert advice on your flossing technique and oral hygiene routine.

Author Summary – Dr Chitra Rao

Dr. Chitra Rao has over a decade of experience in dentistry, specifically in the field of cosmetic and orthodontic treatments. Dedicated to achieving optimal results, she takes a detailed and personalised approach to creating beautiful, confident smiles for her patients. Outside of dentistry, Dr. Chitra enjoys staying active, traveling, and spending time with her family.