Flossing is an essential part of daily oral hygiene, yet many people either skip it or do it incorrectly. Proper flossing removes plaque and food particles from between teeth and along the gumline—areas your toothbrush can’t reach.

A Gentle Method and Approach

To floss correctly, start with about 18 inches of dental floss, winding most of it around your middle fingers and leaving a couple of inches to work with. Use a gentle motion to slide the floss between your teeth using a back-and-forth motion. Avoid snapping the floss, which can harm the gums.

Flossing Between Teeth

Once the floss is between the teeth, curve it into a “C” shape against one tooth and slide it gently beneath the gumline. Then, use an up-and-down motion to clean the side of the tooth. Repeat this process on the adjacent tooth and continue the routine for all your teeth, including the back molars.

Preventing Plaque Buildup

Flossing improperly—or not at all—can lead to plaque buildup, gum inflammation, and even periodontal disease. At Pro Health Dental, we emphasize the importance of technique as much as consistency to protect your oral health.

Whether you’re using traditional floss, floss picks, or a water flosser, what matters most is reaching those tight spaces and cleaning thoroughly. Proper flossing only takes a few minutes each day but can save you from cavities, gum disease, and more significant dental work down the road.