How to Floss Your Teeth – The Right Way to Protect Your Smile in Wheaton, IL
Flossing may be one of the most overlooked steps in oral hygiene, but it’s also one of the most important. At Dental Professionals of Wheaton, we remind our patients that brushing alone isn’t enough to keep your teeth and gums healthy. Flossing removes plaque and food particles from between the teeth—areas your toothbrush can’t reach—and helps prevent gum disease and decay before they start.
Although flossing only takes a couple of minutes per day, research shows that fewer than half of Americans floss daily. Developing a consistent flossing habit can dramatically improve your oral health and help you keep your natural teeth well into your later years.
Why Flossing Is Essential for Healthy Teeth and Gums
Flossing plays a critical role in maintaining your oral health by targeting the spaces between your teeth and below the gumline. Without daily flossing, plaque can build up in these areas and lead to serious issues like gingivitis, periodontal disease, and tooth loss.
Whether you have natural teeth or restorations like crowns or veneers, flossing helps protect your entire smile by reducing bacteria and inflammation that contribute to gum and bone damage over time.
How to Floss Your Teeth Effectively – Step-by-Step Guide
Here’s a simple method recommended by dental professionals for getting the most out of your flossing routine:
- Use about
18 inches of floss and wind most of it around each middle finger, leaving 1–2 inches to work with.
- Gently slide the floss between two teeth.
- Curve it into a
“C” shape around one tooth, and slide it up and down to remove plaque.
- Repeat the motion on the adjacent tooth.
- Move to a clean section of floss as you progress from tooth to tooth.
- Don’t forget to floss
behind your back molars, where plaque can easily collect.
If you’re new to flossing or have trouble getting the technique just right, ask us for a demo during your next dental visit—we’re happy to help. Don't forget these tips from the ADA:
- Always use a
clean section of floss between each tooth to avoid spreading bacteria.
- Be gentle—don’t force the floss or snap it against the gums.
- If traditional floss is difficult to use,
consider floss picks, water flossers, or interdental brushes for added convenience.
Frequently Asked Questions About Flossing
Should I floss every day?
Yes. The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends flossing at least once per day to remove plaque and reduce the risk of cavities and gum disease. Even if you brush twice a day, skipping flossing leaves a third of your tooth surfaces uncleaned.
What are the long-term benefits of flossing?
Flossing helps prevent decay, bleeding gums, and even tooth loss. Over time, it can also contribute to fresher breath, fewer dental procedures, and lower dental costs—making it a simple habit with major benefits.
Is flossing enough on its own?
Flossing is important, but it should always be part of a full oral hygiene routine. This includes brushing twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, limiting sugary snacks, and visiting your dentist every six months for checkups and professional cleanings.
Let Us Help You Perfect Your Flossing Routine in Wheaton, IL
At Dental Professionals of Wheaton, we’re here to support you with every step of your oral care—whether you need a refresher on flossing or a full smile restoration. If you have questions about technique or need product recommendations, we’re just a phone call away.
Contact us today to schedule your next cleaning or consultation, and let’s keep your smile healthy for years to come!
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