How To Floss Your Teeth For Better Health

Flossing is one of those small habits that often gets skipped, but it delivers big rewards for your smile and overall health. Understanding how to floss your teeth properly and how often you should do it can make a big difference in reducing the risk of gum disease and other issues. Even flossing daily may help reduce inflammation and lower the risk of systemic disease. Here’s why flossing matters and how to do it right.

Why flossing matters

Flossing may feel tedious, and people may underestimate its value. But did you know brushing only covers about 60% of the tooth’s surface? The remaining 40%, between teeth and under the gumline,  is where flossing comes in.

Plaque builds up in those tight spots and, if left undisturbed, hardens into tartar. This can lead to gum disease, one of the leading causes of tooth loss in adults. The early stage, gingivitis, may be reversible with proper care. But if it advances to periodontitis, it can damage the soft tissue and bone that support your teeth.

Even if you don’t notice symptoms, bacteria in those hard-to-reach areas can silently erode your gum health and contribute to serious oral problems over time.

How to floss correctly

Proper technique matters. Tugging floss straight down and snapping it between teeth can injure your gums and miss the plaque. According to dental experts at Tufts University, the most effective way to floss is the “C-shape” technique:

• Start with about 18 inches of floss, winding most around each middle finger.
• Hold it taut between your thumbs and index fingers.
• Gently guide it between your teeth using a back-and-forth motion.
• Curve the floss into a C shape against each tooth and slide it up and down.
• Go beneath the gumline gently to clean the area without causing trauma.

If traditional floss is tricky (especially for those with braces, arthritis, or limited dexterity) tools like floss picks, water flossers, or interdental brushes can help. Some studies even show water flossers are as effective when used consistently and correctly.

How often should you floss?

The American Dental Association recommends flossing once a day, but research shows that even a few times a week can offer real benefits. The key is consistency. Whether it’s in the morning, after lunch, or before bed, the best time is the one you’ll stick with.

If you’re just starting out, set a small goal like flossing every other day or after dinner. As it becomes a routine, doing it daily gets easier. Think of flossing as an investment that pays off with stronger gums, fewer cavities, and better overall health.

Timing matters

You may wonder: should you floss before or after brushing? According to the American Association of Orthodontists, flossing before brushing is more effective. It helps remove plaque and debris so the fluoride in your toothpaste can reach more surfaces, strengthening your enamel more effectively.

Your mouth, your heart, and more

Oral health influences more than teeth and gums — it’s connected to your whole body. Inflammation from gum disease can travel through your bloodstream, contributing to problems elsewhere.

A 2025 study presented at the American Stroke Association’s International Stroke Conference found, for example, that people who flossed at least once a week reduced their risk of ischemic stroke and stroke related to heart arrhythmias by up to 44%. These individuals were also less likely than non-flossers to develop atrial fibrillation, a condition that increases the risk of blood clots and stroke.

Other chronic conditions, like heart disease, diabetes, respiratory illness, rheumatoid arthritis, and pregnancy complications, are also tied to inflammation. Harmful oral bacteria can enter the bloodstream, triggering systemic inflammation and making some conditions harder to manage. For instance, gum disease may make it harder to regulate blood sugar levels in people with diabetes. Good oral hygiene, including regular flossing, plays a surprisingly powerful role in protecting both oral and overall health.

Flossing through the ages

It’s never too early, or too late, to start flossing. Teaching kids to floss builds habits that protect their oral health for life. Flavored floss or colorful floss picks can make it more fun. As people age, flossing remains important. Seniors may face mobility challenges, but adaptive tools like electric or water flossers make it easier and more effective. Caregivers should also support individuals with cognitive decline by using simplified tools to help maintain oral hygiene.

Flossing made simple

If daily flossing feels like too much, start small. What matters most is making it a regular part of your routine. Keep floss visible, like near your toothbrush, in your bag, or at your desk, and try pairing it with something enjoyable, like watching TV or listening to a podcast. Tiny steps can lead to big improvements.

Flossing doesn’t have to be perfect — just consistent. Once it becomes second nature, that extra minute will barely register, but your body will feel the benefits. So, the next time you reach for your toothbrush, grab the floss, too. It’s a small step with big benefits for your smile and beyond.

Sources and References:
Dentistry Journal
Tufts University
Indian Society of Periodontology
American Dental Association
American Association of Orthodontists
American Stroke Association’s International Stroke Conference
Nature Medicine
American Diabetes Association