The Benefits of Flossing Daily for Canadians
Brushing is essential. But your toothbrush can’t fit into the tight spaces between teeth. That’s where daily flossing helps most. It clears plaque (a sticky film of bacteria) and food, lowers your risk of cavities and gum disease, freshens your breath, and even supports your overall health. Let’s make flossing simple, gentle, and doable—every day.
What are the benefits of flossing daily?
Daily flossing clears plaque and food between teeth that brushing misses. It lowers your risk of cavities and gum disease, freshens breath, helps your toothpaste work better, and supports overall health. It’s gentle and can save money on dental work.
Why daily flossing matters
Flossing reaches the 40% of tooth surfaces your brush may miss. When plaque sits between teeth, acids attack enamel and irritate gums. Over time, this can lead to cavities, bleeding, and gum disease. Flossing breaks up this buildup before it hardens into tartar (a crusty deposit only a hygienist can remove).
“Cleaning between your teeth with an interdental cleaner, such as floss, removes plaque that toothbrushing alone cannot reach.” — American Dental Association
The mouth–body connection
Healthy gums support a healthy body. Research links poor gum health with conditions like diabetes and heart disease. Flossing won’t cure these issues, but it can lower overall inflammation in your mouth. Combine daily flossing with regular dental checkups and cleanings for the best protection.
How to floss the right way (gentle and effective)
1) Measure and wrap
Pull about 18 inches of floss (roughly forearm length). Wrap most around your middle fingers, leaving 2–3 cm to work with between your thumbs and index fingers.
2) Guide, don’t snap
Gently slide the floss between teeth using a back-and-forth motion. Don’t snap it into the gums.
3) Make a C-shape
Hug the side of the tooth in a C-shape. Slide up and down, going just under the gumline with light pressure.
4) Clean both sides
Each gap has two tooth surfaces. Clean both, then move to a fresh section of floss.
5) Reach the molars
Don’t skip the last teeth. Those back corners trap plaque and food.
If you want a visual walkthrough, see how to floss correctly according to dentists.
String floss vs water flossers
Both can work well. String floss lets you contact the tooth directly. Water flossers (a handheld device that sprays a pulsating stream) are great if you have braces, bridges, dental implants, or limited hand movement. Many people mix methods—string floss a few days a week and water floss the others.
Curious if a device would help you more? Explore water flosser benefits and when to use one.
Choosing your tool: floss types made simple
Use the tool you’ll actually use:
- Waxed floss: slides easily through tight spaces.
- Tape-style floss: wider and comfy for larger gaps.
- PTFE floss: very smooth and shred-resistant.
- Super floss or floss threaders: for braces, bridges, and implants.
- Interdental brushes: small brushes for wider spaces or gum recession.
Tip: If your fingers struggle, try pre-threaded flossers or a water flosser. The best option is the one you’ll stick with daily.
Common mistakes (and easy fixes)
- Snapping the floss: switch to a gentle glide.
- Only “popping” in and out: hug each tooth and slide up and down to remove the film of plaque.
- Skipping the back teeth: they’re often the first to get cavities.
- Quitting when gums bleed: light bleeding often means inflammation. Keep flossing gently; it usually improves within a week. If not, see your dentist or hygienist.
Want broader prevention tips that work with your flossing routine? Check out these practical tips for avoiding plaque buildup.
Make it a habit you’ll keep
Small steps work best:
- Same time daily: most people like right before bed.
- Keep floss visible: beside your brush, on your counter, or in your bag.
- Start with two teeth: build confidence, then add more each night.
- Use reminders: a phone alert can help for the first two weeks.
Fresh breath and confidence
Food and bacteria between teeth can cause odour. Flossing clears that debris and reduces odor-causing sulfur compounds. For an extra boost, brush your tongue and drink more water during the day.
Cost savings from prevention
Preventive care almost always costs less than repair. Flossing helps you avoid fillings, root canals, gum treatments, and replacements. Over the years, those avoided procedures can mean real savings—plus fewer long dental visits.
Kids, teens, and seniors
Kids
Start when two teeth touch (often around ages 2–3). Parents should help until kids can do a careful job—usually around ages 8–10. Floss sticks can make it easier for small hands.
Teens
Braces trap food and plaque. Use waxed floss with a threader or a water flosser to prevent white spots, sore gums, and bad breath.
Seniors
Arthritis or limited grip? Try larger-handled flossers, interdental brushes, or a water flosser. If you have a bridge, clean under it daily to protect supporting teeth and gums.
When flossing hurts or gums bleed
A bit of tenderness or light bleeding is common if gums are inflamed. Keep it gentle and consistent; most people see improvement in about a week. If bleeding doesn’t improve, or you have pain or swelling, book a dental visit.
Partner with your Canadian dental team
Your hygienist can match a flossing style and tool to your mouth. Ask for a quick demo—most teams are happy to help. Many Canadians also benefit from a progress check to tweak technique or choose better tools.
Conclusion
Daily flossing is a small habit with big payoffs. It helps prevent cavities and gum disease, keeps your breath fresh, supports overall health, and can save money on future dental work. Choose a tool you like—string floss, flossers, interdental brushes, or a water flosser—and keep it gentle and consistent. If you need a refresher, revisit the steps above or ask your dental team to show you at your next visit.
FAQ
Do I really need to floss every day?
Yes. Plaque rebuilds quickly between teeth. Daily flossing breaks it up before it hardens into tartar and irritates gums.
Should I floss before or after brushing?
Either is fine. Many people prefer flossing first so toothpaste and fluoride can reach between teeth better. Pick the order you’ll stick with every day.
Are water flossers as good as string floss?
Both can work well. String floss gives direct contact with the tooth. Water flossers are great for braces, implants, bridges, and limited dexterity. Many people use both for best results. Learn more in water flosser benefits and when to use one.
What if my gums bleed when I start flossing?
Light bleeding often means inflamed gums. Keep flossing gently every day. If bleeding continues after a week or two, or you feel pain or swelling, see your dentist or hygienist.
When should children start flossing?
Start when two teeth touch. Parents should help until children can do it safely and thoroughly on their own. Floss sticks are handy for small mouths. For step-by-step guidance, see how to floss correctly according to dentists.
What type of floss is best?
The best floss is the one you’ll use daily. Waxed floss slides easily, tape-style is wider for larger gaps, and PTFE floss resists shredding. Interdental brushes or a water flosser can help if string floss is tricky. For broader prevention habits, see practical tips for avoiding plaque buildup.
