A Family Dentist Explains Why You Should Floss Everyday

TLDR;

Flossing every day removes plaque and food from places your toothbrush cannot reach. This prevents cavities, gum disease, and bad breath, while also protecting your overall health. A family dentist like Buford Dentist recommends making flossing part of your daily routine to keep your smile and body healthy.

Why You Should Floss Every Day

Flossing is not optional. When you floss daily, you clean between teeth and under the gumline where brushing fails. Plaque forms in those areas within hours of eating. If not removed, it hardens into tartar that causes gum disease and tooth decay. Skipping flossing means leaving bacteria behind.

What Happens When You Do Not Floss Every Day

Plaque buildup starts quickly. Within 24 to 36 hours, plaque becomes tartar. Once tartar forms, only a dental professional can remove it.
Problems caused by skipping flossing:

Bleeding gums due to constant bacterial irritation
Persistent bad breath caused by trapped food
Cavities in interdental spaces
Gum disease that can progress from gingivitis to periodontitis
Tooth loss if untreated

Skipping flossing also increases risks of systemic health issues. Oral bacteria are linked to heart disease, diabetes, and respiratory infections.

Benefits of Flossing Daily

Daily flossing improves oral and overall health.

Removes plaque before it hardens
Prevents gum inflammation and bleeding
Reduces risk of cavities
Keeps breath fresh
Protects against bone loss around teeth
Lowers the chance of bacteria entering the bloodstream

Flossing is an investment in your health. A few minutes each day save you from expensive and painful treatments later.

Advice From a Family Dentist

Buford Dentist explains flossing is not the same for everyone. Different ages and oral conditions require adjustments.

Flossing for Children

Start as soon as two teeth touch
Use floss picks for small hands
Teach kids by making flossing part of bedtime routine

Flossing for Elders and Sensitive Gums

Use soft floss designed for delicate tissue
Consider water flossers if fingers or mobility are limited
Floss slowly to avoid irritation

Flossing With Braces, Implants, or Dental Work

Floss threaders help reach under wires
Water flossers improve cleaning around implants and bridges
Patients with dental work must floss daily to avoid plaque buildup around hardware

Flossing During Pregnancy

Pregnancy hormones make gums more sensitive. Daily flossing prevents gingivitis that often worsens during pregnancy. Healthy gums also support overall maternal health.

How to Floss Properly

Technique matters. Flossing incorrectly can hurt gums.

Step-by-step:

Cut about 18 inches of floss
Wrap ends around middle fingers
Hold tight with thumb and forefinger
Slide gently between teeth
Curve into a C-shape against each tooth
Move up and down without snapping
Use clean sections of floss as you go

Flossing Tools and Options

Not everyone prefers traditional string floss. Several tools are available.

String floss: most effective when used correctly
Floss picks: easy to carry and use on the go
Water flossers: ideal for braces, implants, or arthritis
Interdental brushes: good for larger gaps or gum recession

Choose the tool that you are comfortable with. The key is consistency.

When to Floss

Timing matters less than doing it daily. Many dentists recommend flossing before bedtime so teeth stay clean overnight. Flossing before brushing also helps fluoride from toothpaste reach between teeth.

Overcoming Barriers to Flossing

Patients often struggle to make flossing a habit.

Common issues and solutions:

Lack of time: floss while watching TV or before shower
Bleeding gums: continue flossing daily, bleeding will improve in one to two weeks
Forgetting: set reminders on your phone
Sensitivity: choose waxed floss or water flossers
Access: keep floss in multiple places, such as the bathroom and car

Local Perspective From Georgia Dentists

Dentists in Georgia, including Buford Dentist, see common issues that daily flossing could prevent.

High sugar diets from sweet tea and regional foods increase plaque buildup
Warm, humid climate encourages bacterial growth in the mouth
Patients who floss daily have shorter, less painful cleanings at their dental visits

Local stores and pharmacies in Georgia stock floss, floss picks, and water flossers. Patients should pick the tool that fits their lifestyle.

Signs You Need to See a Dentist

Flossing helps, but some signs require professional care.

Gums bleed heavily even after two weeks of daily flossing
Receding gums or visible roots
Loose teeth
Persistent bad breath
Swelling or pain that does not improve

A family dentist removes tartar, treats gum disease, and guides patients on proper flossing.

Myths About Flossing

Many people believe false information about flossing.

Brushing is enough. Wrong. Brushes cannot reach tight interdental spaces.
Flossing damages gums. Incorrect technique damages gums, but proper flossing improves gum health.
Flossing is only for adults. Children need flossing once teeth touch.
All floss is the same. Waxed, unwaxed, flavored, and tape flosses work differently for different mouths.

Tips to Make Flossing a Habit

Forming the habit is easier with structure.

Floss at the same time every day
Keep floss visible as a reminder
Try different floss types until you find one you prefer
Floss as a family to set a good example for kids
Track progress with a calendar or app

FAQ Section

How often should you floss

Once every day. Consistency is more important than timing.

Should you floss before or after brushing

Floss before brushing to allow toothpaste fluoride to reach between teeth.

What is the best floss for sensitive gums

Waxed or soft floss is less harsh. Water flossers also work well.

Can flossing replace professional cleanings

No. Flossing prevents buildup but tartar must be removed by a dentist.

Better Oral Health With Buford Dentist

Daily flossing is the simplest way to prevent cavities, gum disease, and bad breath. Buford Dentist recommends flossing once a day with the tool that works best for you. A few minutes of flossing protect your oral health and lower risks of systemic disease. Your smile and your body will thank you.