Understanding the Basics: What is Flossing?

Think of the toothbrush and floss as the Batman and Robin of oral hygiene. While most people are familiar with brushing, what exactly does flossing do? Flossing helps remove food particles and plaque from between teeth and along the gum line — areas that brushing alone may miss. This makes it a key step in preventing plaque buildup and keeping gums healthy.

Where did dental floss originate? Here’s a hint inspired by The Animals’ song, “My father was a gambling man, down in New…” That’s right — it all started in 1815 in New Orleans when a local dentist began recommending silk dental floss as an extra method for cleaning teeth.

And here’s an interesting twist! Which came first, floss or the toothbrush? While toothbrushes were widely used outside the U.S. long before floss, mass production in the U.S. tells a different story. Toothbrushes first hit mass production in the U.S. in 1885, while Johnson & Johnson began producing dental floss in 1896.

More than 200 years later, silk dental floss is still around, although modern materials have also come into play. Today’s floss is made from materials such as:

• Acetate
• Nylon
• Capron

Floss has evolved not only in material but also in form and functionality. Here’s a breakdown of the various types:

• Rounded: Ideal for daily use and suited for those with wider gaps between teeth.
• Flat: Best for individuals with tightly spaced teeth.
• Expanding (Waxed): This floss expands on contact with saliva, allowing it to fill and clean between teeth more effectively.
• Specialized: Designed for cleaning around braces, implants, bridges, or crowns.
• Unwaxed: This type doesn’t expand during use.
• Classic or Infused: Classic floss is plain, while infused options may include active ingredients like mint, antiseptics, or fluoride for added benefits.

With so many options, finding the right floss can make all the difference in maintaining a thorough oral hygiene routine.

Key Benefits of Flossing

Why is flossing so important? Think of it like cleaning a messy room. Before vacuuming, you pick up the toys, wrappers, and other debris scattered around. It’s the same with flossing. First, you remove leftover food particles and plaque stuck between teeth and gums, and only then do you brush, allowing your toothbrush and toothpaste to do their best work.

Using any type of dental floss is a win for your smile, as it prevents cavities and supports healthy gums. If flossing isn’t part of your routine (or if you’ve put it on pause), here’s a list of flossing benefits to encourage you to start. Skipping this step could mean more frequent visits to the dentist — and potentially even a periodontist to treat more advanced oral health issues.

Removes Plaque and Food Particles

No matter how well you brush, a toothbrush isn’t a magic wand. It can’t reach every nook and cranny between teeth and under the gums. By flossing, you eliminate food particles and plaque that otherwise provide a perfect environment for bacterial growth, which ultimately leads to cavities and other health issues.

Reduces Gum Disease Risk

Wondering if flossing is really necessary? Absolutely! Flossing gently clears plaque from not just the surface of the teeth but also from below the gumline, helping to prevent gum diseases like gingivitis.

Prevents Bad Breath

Leftover food particles between the teeth and around the gums invite bacteria, which can lead to bad breath. Regular flossing keeps these areas clean, helping to keep your breath fresh.

Can Prevent Tartar Buildup

When plaque in hard-to-reach areas isn’t removed, it hardens into tartar, which can lead to cavities and gum disease. Flossing prevents tartar buildup, provided you use it correctly.

Contributes to Overall Oral Health

High levels of bacteria in the mouth can lead to a range of oral diseases. Flossing reduces bacterial buildup, supporting a cleaner, healthier mouth.

May Benefit Overall Health

Studies have shown connections between oral health issues (like cavities and gum disease) and cardiovascular conditions. Additionally, oral health impacts digestive health, affecting the stomach and intestines. So, the benefits of flossing extend well beyond just your mouth.

Tips for Effective Flossing

For a solid oral care routine, start with flossing, move on to brushing with your favorite toothpaste, and finish with a mouthwash. This sequence maximizes cleanliness and keeps your gums and teeth in top shape.

Choosing the Right Floss:

• Wide Gaps: For larger spaces between teeth, round floss works best.
• Smaller Gaps: Flat, waxed floss is ideal for tighter spaces.
• Hard-to-Reach Areas: Try expandable (waxed) floss, which adapts to reach deep between teeth.
• Tighter Spaces: Unwaxed floss doesn’t slide as easily, so it’s less suited for tightly spaced teeth but does provide a thorough clean.

Flossing Technique:
Use a piece of floss about 18–20 inches long. Gently slide the floss between each pair of teeth, using a motion like sawing wood or playing a violin. Once the floss reaches the gumline, press it against each tooth and move upward to remove plaque, ensuring you don’t harm the gums.

Floss Every Day: Overcoming Common Excuses

“I don’t have time,” “It hurts,” “I don’t know how.” There are plenty of reasons people skip flossing, but none worth risking your dental health. Flossing takes only a minute or two — your health is well worth that! If flossing feels painful, try a gentler, flat floss. And if you’re unsure how to do it correctly, you can find numerous online tutorials that walk you through the steps.

Still have questions about flossing? Schedule a visit with our clinic for a check-up. We’ll help keep your smile healthy and show you effective flossing techniques tailored just for you.