Isn't brushing twice a day enough?
Brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste is essential, but your toothbrush can only reach about 60-70% of your tooth surfaces. The rest? That's the tight spaces between your teeth where food and plaque build up.
Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria. Left undisturbed, it can cause:
- Tooth decay between teeth
- Bad breath
- Bleeding gums
- Gum disease, which in the long term can lead to tooth loss
So when dentists “nag” you to floss, it's not about being picky — it's about protecting the 30-40% of your mouth your toothbrush misses.
Floss vs interdental brushes
For many people, especially adults, interdental brushes (the small bottle-brush style cleaners) work better than floss. They're easier to handle and more effective at cleaning larger gaps between teeth.
- Floss is best for tight spaces where brushes won't fit.
- Interdental brushes are great if you have spaces, gum recession, or dental work like bridges.
Your dentist or hygienist can recommend the best option for you.
How often do I need to floss?
The gold standard is once a day. But here's the honest truth: even flossing or using interdental brushes a few times a week makes a big difference compared to not doing it at all.
Think of it like exercise — some is always better than none.
What if my gums bleed?
Many people stop flossing because their gums bleed. Ironically, that's usually a sign you need to floss more, not less. Bleeding gums are often an early warning of gum disease (gingivitis). With regular cleaning between your teeth, the bleeding should improve within a couple of weeks.
Quick tips for easier flossing
- Pick the right tool: floss, tape, or brushes depending on your teeth
- Be gentle: don't snap floss down onto your gums — curve it around each tooth instead
- Make it routine: try before brushing at night so it becomes a habit
- Don't panic if you miss a day: just pick it up again the next night
The bottom line
Dentists keep asking about flossing because it's one of the simplest, cheapest ways to:
- Prevent gum disease
- Reduce bad breath
- Protect against decay between teeth
- Keep your smile healthy long term
So the next time your dentist “nags” you to floss, remember — we can see if you only started the night before your appointment 😄
Need help finding a dentist near you?
Whether you're looking for an NHS dentist, a private check-up, or professional advice on gum health, Filling You In connects you with local practices that have availability.