Yes, Daily Flossing Really Is That Important: Here's Why, and How to Do It Well

If your dentist has ever told you that you should floss more, you’re not alone — and you might be surprised to learn that they’re not just giving generic advice. Flossing daily really is one of the most important things you can do for your oral health.

Brushing cleans the surfaces of your teeth, but it doesn’t reach the tight spaces between them. That’s where flossing comes in. It clears out food particles and plaque that your toothbrush can’t reach to help prevent gum disease, tooth decay, and bad breath.

Still not convinced? Our team at Austin Advanced Dentistry is here to answer all your questions. We specialize in oral hygiene and teeth cleaning in Austin, Texas, and here’s why you shouldn’t be skipping out on flossing.

What happens when you don’t floss

When you don’t floss, bacteria and plaque begin to accumulate between your teeth and under your gumline. You may notice bleeding when brushing or flossing, which is a sign of inflammation that often subsides once flossing becomes a habit.

This bacteria builds up, increasing your risk of gingivitis and more serious gum disease (periodontitis) over time. Periodontitis causes issues like gum recession, infection, and even loose teeth. Cavities can also form between your teeth, which often require fillings or more extensive dental work down the line.

And left untreated, gum disease doesn’t just affect your smile — it’s been linked to heart disease, diabetes, and other systemic health issues. So yes, that tiny string of floss really can make a big difference.

Flossing daily helps prevent all of these potential oral health issues by disrupting plaque before it hardens into tartar, which is a substance that can only be removed by a dental professional.

How to floss correctly and effectively

Daily flossing is essential for maintaining your oral health, and it’s also crucial to do it correctly. Here’s how:

• Use about 18 inches of floss, wrapping most of it around your middle fingers, and leaving a short section in the middle to work with
• Gently slide the floss between your teeth using a back-and-forth motion (never snap it down)
• Curve the floss in a “C” shape around the base of each tooth and slide it under your gumline
• Use a clean section of floss for each tooth

If you find traditional floss hard to use, floss picks, soft picks, or a water flosser can be great alternatives. The key is consistency — flossing once a day, even if it’s just before bed, can significantly improve your oral health.

It’s easy to talk yourself out of daily flossing, but its benefits are real. The truth is that flossing is one of the easiest, most affordable ways to maintain a healthy smile and prevent long-term dental problems. Pair it with regular brushing and professional cleanings, and you’re setting yourself up for strong, healthy teeth that last a lifetime.

Take action and schedule your next cleaning at Austin Advanced Dentistry today. Call us at 512-886-6734 or book online now.