What you need to know about flossing your teeth

Dentists recommend flossing teeth at least once a day, ideally before bed. The goal is to remove food particles and plaque, a sticky film containing bacteria, from between teeth and under the gumline before it can wreak havoc on your teeth and gums.

While the benefits of flossing have been debated, some research shows that flossing alongside brushing may be more effective at reducing plaque and gingivitis than brushing alone. The technique, timing and frequency, however, may play a role in helping to maintain good oral health, some experts said.

Tooth shape and technique

Flossing helps dislodge food and debris from between teeth, but more importantly, it can remove plaque from underneath the gumline, where toothbrushes cannot reach.

The proper technique may depend, in part, on the shape of the teeth. Tooth shapes can vary as some teeth tend to have flatter edges, such as the front teeth, and others tend to be more rounded, such as the molars in the back of the mouth, said Helen Mo, a pediatric dentist.

Flossing in an up-and-down motion can work for flat-edged teeth, but rounded teeth require a C-shape technique to get them clean. “Once you near the base of the tooth at the gumline, curve the floss in a C-shape pattern to clean between the gums and the teeth,” Mo said.

Your dentist can explain your tooth contours to you during a routine dental exam, but the C-shape method works well regardless of tooth shape, said Omar Armstrong, a dentist in New York.

While traditional floss works well for many people, those with certain tooth placements, orthodontics or dexterity challenges may need additional help. Products such as waxed floss, threaders and flossers with long handles may help.

People who have not flossed in a while may experience some bleeding.

“A common myth is that if you bleed while flossing, you should floss less. It’s usually the opposite,” Kim said. “Bleeding is a sign of inflammation of the gingiva, meaning the gums are irritated from plaque and buildup, so it’s important to floss more, not less.”

Persistent bleeding or pain and inflammation should be assessed by an oral health professional.