Brush bristles can't reach the tight spaces between teeth. Food and plaque left there are where cavities and gum disease begin. Flossing once a day greatly lowers that risk.
How to floss correctly
- Take about 45 cm of floss and wind it around two fingers
- Slide it gently between teeth — don't snap it down
- Curve it into a "C" against each tooth and move it up and down
- Use a fresh section of floss for each gap
Alternatives to floss
- Floss picks — easier if handling floss is hard
- Interdental brushes — for wider gaps
- Water flossers — helpful with braces or bridges
Bleeding at first?
A little bleeding for the first few days is normal because the gums are inflamed. With daily flossing it usually stops within one or two weeks.
When to see a dentist
If bleeding or pain continues despite regular flossing, have your gums checked.