Flossing remains a cornerstone of oral hygiene. Despite growing access to advanced dental tools, flossing is irreplaceable for preventing gum disease and cavities between teeth. Experts like Dr. Esteban Garza, DDS, MAGD of Champions Dental, stress its importance in daily routines.
Why is flossing still essential?
Flossing removes plaque where toothbrushes can’t reach. Plaque buildup between teeth and under the gumline causes gingivitis and interproximal cavities. Brushing only cleans about 60% of tooth surfaces. Flossing handles the remaining 40%.
Key statistics:
Over 30% of Americans floss daily (CDC)
Interproximal decay accounts for 35-40% of all cavities
Flossing reduces gingivitis by 38% when done correctly (Journal of Clinical Periodontology)
What happens if you skip flossing?
Skipping flossing leads to biofilm accumulation. This sticky bacterial layer hardens into tartar, triggering periodontal disease. Gum inflammation, bleeding, and eventual bone loss can follow.
Common effects of not flossing:
Increased plaque and calculus deposits
Gum recession and inflammation
Higher risk of tooth mobility and loss
Elevated risk of halitosis (chronic bad breath)
How do dental professionals recommend flossing?
Dentists recommend flossing once per day, ideally before brushing. This order loosens debris, allowing fluoride to reach deeper areas.
Dr. Esteban Garza’s advice from Champions Dental:
“Think of flossing as insurance for your smile. It protects the tight spots a toothbrush can’t touch and prevents small problems from turning into expensive ones.”
Correct flossing technique:
Use 18 inches of floss wrapped around fingers
Gently slide the floss between teeth, hugging the curve of each tooth
Avoid snapping floss against the gums
Use a clean section for each tooth
Are there alternatives to traditional floss?
Yes, but traditional floss is still the gold standard. Other tools help in specific cases, especially for people with braces, arthritis, or dexterity issues.
Common alternatives:
| Tool | Best For | Effectiveness |
|---|---|---|
| Water Flossers | Gum sensitivity, braces | Moderate |
| Interdental Brushes | Wider gaps, bridges | High |
| Soft Picks | Mild plaque, orthodontic patients | Moderate |
| Floss Picks | Travel or beginner flossers | Moderate |
Note: Floss picks are better than nothing, but they offer limited reach and control.
What should you look for in floss?
Choose floss based on tooth spacing and sensitivity. Waxed floss slides easier between tight teeth, while unwaxed gives more friction for plaque removal.
Floss types:
Waxed floss – Best for tight contacts
Unwaxed floss – Greater surface area, more friction
PTFE floss (Glide) – Shreds less, easier use
Dental tape – Wide and flat, ideal for people with gaps
Charcoal floss – Adsorptive properties, aesthetic appeal
What do experts like Dr. Garza say about flossing?
Dr. Esteban Garza emphasizes individualized care. With over 1,000 hours of continuing education and a Mastership from the Academy of General Dentistry, his insights are grounded in science and practice.
“The easiest problems to fix are the ones we prevent. Daily flossing doesn’t just protect your teeth—it protects your long-term health.”
— Dr. Esteban Garza, DDS, MAGD | Champions Dental
How can you make flossing a habit?
Habit formation depends on repetition, cues, and perceived reward. Many patients skip flossing not because they don’t care, but because it hasn’t been integrated into their routine. Dental professionals recommend anchoring flossing to an existing habit like brushing or skincare.
Tips to stick with daily flossing:
Floss at the same time each day – Consistency builds neural pathways
Place floss in a visible spot – A visual cue increases compliance
Use tools that match your preferences – If string floss is hard, try floss picks or water flossers
Pair flossing with a positive habit – Like playing music, podcast time, or journaling
Track your progress weekly – Use a calendar, sticky note, or app
Set a small goal first – Start with 3 days a week, then build to 7
Reward yourself – Positive reinforcement strengthens behavior loops
Behavioral insight:
According to the American Dental Association, patients who floss in the evening while winding down are 52% more likely to stick with it long-term than those who try to floss in the morning. Flossing becomes sustainable when linked to a predictable routine and personal motivation.
Flossing is more than a task—it’s a micro-habit that contributes to lifelong oral and systemic health. When patients understand its impact and remove friction from the process, adherence improves significantly.
Next, we’ll explore how flossing fits into a full oral hygiene system, including fluoride toothpaste use, brushing technique, and gum-friendly nutrition.