Dental floss is an absolutely essential tool for complete oral hygiene and one that can help prevent many dental problems. To achieve the best results and enjoy all the benefits it can offer, it’s important to make sure you use it correctly. In this article, we’ll discuss the proper techniques for using dental floss, the best time to use it, and common mistakes to avoid.
The role of dental floss in oral hygiene
No matter how diligently you brush your teeth or what type of toothbrush you use electric or manual brushing alone is not enough to ensure proper oral hygiene, as it cannot adequately clean the spaces between the teeth and below the gumline. This is where dental floss comes in, helping to remove plaque and food debris from these areas.[1]
Why is it important to use dental floss? Because it helps prevent dental problems such as cavities, gingivitis, and periodontitis by eliminating plaque and reducing the risk of tartar buildup.[1]
Plaque is a sticky film that constantly forms on our teeth when bacteria in the mouth mix with food particles. If plaque is not removed through both brushing and flossing, it hardens into a substance called tartar. Once formed, tartar can only be removed by a dentist through professional cleaning. Both plaque and tartar are among the main causes of dental problems and/or their worsening.[1]
Correct techniques for flossing
To enjoy all the benefits of using dental floss, you need to make sure you’re using it correctly. This involves following a few simple steps:
- Tear off a piece of dental floss about 45 cm (18 inches) long;
- Wrap the ends around the middle finger of each hand;
- Hold the floss between your thumbs and index fingers, leaving a taut section of about 2.5 cm (1 inch) in the middle;
- Using gentle back-and-forth motions, insert the floss between your teeth. Do not force it, as this can cut or injure the delicate gum tissue;
- Once the floss is below the gumline, curve it around one tooth in a C shape and gently move it up and down to clean the side of the tooth;
- Repeat this process for each tooth, using a clean section of floss for every new interdental space.
What is the best time to use dental floss?
In general, it is recommended to use dental floss in the evening. However, the exact time isn’t as important as making sure it’s used daily—and most importantly, used correctly. If you find yourself skipping this step at night or rushing through cleaning the interdental spaces because you’re too tired, it’s better to include it in your morning routine, for example, rather than skipping it altogether.[1][2][3]
Dental floss: before or after brushing?
Ideally, dental floss should be used before brushing your teeth, as it helps to lift food particles and plaque from between the teeth, allowing them to be completely removed during brushing. However, just like in the previous case, the order isn’t as important as making sure your oral care routine includes both brushing and flossing.[1][2]
Common mistakes when using dental floss
Many patients avoid using dental floss or use it incorrectly, which can lead to discomfort or even dental problems. Here are some common mistakes:
- Using dental floss only occasionally – this is not enough to prevent plaque buildup and tartar formation; it’s recommended to floss daily;
- Using the same section of floss to clean multiple teeth – this habit can spread bacteria from one tooth to another, potentially worsening existing dental issues;
- Pressing too hard between the teeth – aggressive flossing can injure the gum tissue;
- Skipping the spaces between molars – unfortunately, these areas are often “forgotten,” creating favorable conditions for unpleasant dental problems.[1][2][3]
Flossing is an essential step in your oral care routine. When used correctly and regularly, it helps maintain healthy teeth and gums and prevents the development and worsening of many dental issues. So make time at least once a day to properly clean your interdental spaces with dental floss.
For personalized oral hygiene advice, schedule a consultation at Smile Vision! Our specialists will tell you everything you need to know about proper flossing and other steps you can take to prevent dental problems and enjoy a healthy, beautiful smile.
Sources:
- „Flossing”, org, American Dental Association, 2025, www.mouthhealthy.org/all-topics-a-z/flossing. Accessed at January 31th, 2025.
- „How to Properly Floss Your Teeth”, Cleveland Clinic, 13 Nov. 2024, health.clevelandclinic.org/how-to-floss-your-teeth. Accesat la 31 Ian. 2025.
- Higuera, Valencia. „What’s the Best Way to Floss Your Teeth?”, Healthline, 8 Jan. 2020, www.healthline.com/health/how-to-floss. Accesat la 31 Ian. 2025.
