Flossing. It’s that one word in dental care that often gets shrugged off or conveniently forgotten. Many people admit to skipping it entirely or only doing it the night before a dental appointment. But here’s the truth: flossing is just as important as brushing—if not more in some cases.
Why Flossing Matters
Your toothbrush can clean the front, back, and chewing surfaces of your teeth, but it can’t reach the tight spaces between them. That’s where plaque and food particles love to hide. Over time, this buildup can lead to:
Gum disease (gingivitis and periodontitis)
Tooth decay
Bad breath
Tartar formation, which can only be removed professionally
Flossing once a day helps remove this hidden debris and disrupts the formation of plaque before it hardens into tartar.
Flossing and Gum Health
Bleeding when you floss might seem like a reason to stop—but in fact, it’s a sign you should keep going. Bleeding gums are usually a result of inflammation caused by plaque buildup. With regular flossing, inflammation typically subsides within a week or two.
Think of flossing as giving your gums a mini-workout: at first, they might protest, but with consistency, they become healthier and stronger.
Manual Floss, Floss Picks, or Water Flossers?
There’s no one-size-fits-all. Here’s a quick guide:
Traditional floss (waxed or unwaxed): Best for tight contacts and precise control.
Floss picks: Great for convenience, especially when you're on the go.
Water flossers: Ideal for people with braces, bridges, or dexterity issues. They're not a replacement for floss but can be a helpful addition.
The best kind of floss? The one you’ll actually use.
How to Floss Properly (It’s Simpler Than You Think)
Break off about 45 cm (18 inches) of floss.
Wind most of it around your middle fingers, leaving about 5 cm (2 inches) to work with.
Gently slide it between your teeth using a sawing motion.
Curve the floss into a C-shape around each tooth and move it up and down.
Move to the next tooth using a clean part of the floss!
Don’t forget to floss behind your back teeth too!
Make It a Habit, Not a Hassle
The key to successful flossing is consistency. Whether you do it in the morning, at night, or even while watching TV, find a time that works for you and stick with it. If you’re starting late, don’t worry—it’s never too late to improve your oral health.
Final Thoughts
Flossing might not be glamorous, but it’s a powerful habit with long-term benefits. Just a few minutes a day can save you from costly dental procedures, discomfort, and gum disease down the road. So, next time you’re tempted to skip it, remember: your future self (and your dentist) will thank you.
At Pain Free Dentist Sydney, we offer gentle, judgment-free care and real solutions to get your confidence back on track.
📍 Visit us at G1a, 570 New Canterbury Road, Hurlstone Park NSW
📞 Call us on (02) 9558 8988
📧 Or email us at info@painfreedentistsydney.com.au
Smile bright—floss tonight! 🦷✨