How Often Should You Floss?

Why Brooklyn Smiles Start with Flossing

If you're anything like most folks in Park Slope, your days are packed—from morning drop-offs at PS 321 to grabbing coffee at Brew Memories and squeezing in that last-minute grocery run at the Coop. 

With so much going on, it’s easy to brush your teeth and call it a day... and forget about flossing.

You’re not alone. Flossing often falls to the bottom of the to-do list—but it’s one of the simplest things you can do to keep your smile healthy for the long run.

So, how often should you floss? What happens if you skip it? And how can you actually make flossing part of your routine, even on busy Brooklyn days?

Let’s break it all down with real-life tips and expert advice from your local Seventh Avenue dentist at Park Slope Dentistry Seventh Avenue.

 

How Often Should You Floss Your Teeth?

The short answer? Once a day is just right. Flossing daily helps remove food and plaque from between your teeth—places your toothbrush just can’t reach. Whether you floss in the morning, at night, or even after lunch, what matters most is making it a regular habit.

Many people find that flossing before bed works best. That way, you're going to sleep with a truly clean mouth. Others prefer to floss after meals, especially if something’s stuck (hello, kale Caesar salad from Crosta!).

Here’s the good news: You don’t have to be perfect. If you miss a day here and there, don’t stress. Just pick it back up when you can. Over time, flossing will become as second nature as brushing.

Why Is Flossing Important for Healthy Teeth and Gums?

Brushing is great, but it doesn’t clean everything. Your toothbrush can’t reach the tight spaces between your teeth or just below the gumline. That’s where flossing comes in.

Flossing removes the sticky plaque and leftover food particles that love to hide in those hard-to-reach spots. When that gunk sits too long, it can lead to cavities, bad breath, and gum disease—even if you brush twice a day.

Healthy gums aren’t just about your smile—they’re also connected to your overall health. Studies have shown a link between gum disease and conditions like heart disease, Alzheimer’s disease, dementia, and diabetes. So, by flossing daily, you’re taking care of your whole body. 

Want to make sure you’re flossing the right way? At Park Slope Dentistry Seventh Avenue, we’re always happy to walk you through it during your visit.

 

What Happens If You Don’t Floss?

Skipping floss might not seem like a big deal—until the signs start to show. Without flossing, plaque builds up between your teeth and along the gumline.

 

Over time, that can lead to:

  • Bleeding gums when you brush

  • Persistent bad breath (even after brushing)

  • Tooth sensitivity or tenderness

  • Gum inflammation or puffiness

  • Recession of the gingiva, exposing delicate root surfaces 

You might not notice anything at first. But when plaque sticks around, it hardens into tartar, which can’t be removed at home. That’s when gum disease can begin to develop.

The good news? It’s never too late to start flossing. Even if your gums bleed a little at first, that’s a sign they need some love. Keep it up for a few days, and you’ll likely notice the bleeding fades and your mouth feels fresher.

Not sure if you’re seeing signs of trouble? Stop by our office on Seventh Avenue. We’ll take a look and give you some easy, no-pressure tips to get back on track.

Is It Better to Floss Before or After Brushing?

We get this question a lot in our Park Slope office, and the truth is—either one works! The most important thing is that you do it once a day, whether it’s before or after brushing.

That said, here’s a quick breakdown to help you choose what works best for you:

  • Floss before brushing: This can help loosen food and plaque so your toothbrush can sweep it away more effectively.

  • Floss after brushing: Some people prefer brushing first so their mouth already feels clean, and flossing becomes the final polish.

According to both the NHS and the American Association of Orthodontists, flossing before you brush may be slightly more effective. It helps dislodge plaque and food debris, allowing the fluoride in your toothpaste to better reach between your teeth, where it does the most good.

Still, the bottom line? Consistency matters more than order. Pick the routine that feels easiest to stick with and make it part of your daily rhythm.

Pro tip: Keep floss somewhere visible—next to your toothbrush or in your bag. And if traditional floss feels tricky, floss picks or water flossers can make it easier to stay on track.

What’s the Best Type of Floss to Use?

Not all floss is created equal. Finding the right type for your smile can make all the difference. Whether you're dealing with tight teeth, braces, or just trying to get your kids into the habit, there’s an option that fits.

Here’s a quick guide to help you choose:

Traditional string floss 

This is the gold standard. It’s inexpensive and effective when used correctly, especially for reaching just below the gumline. Great for most adults with healthy spacing.

Floss picks 

These are a great option if you struggle with the dexterity of string floss or want something more convenient on the go (think: post-lunch at a South Slope café). They’re also easier for kids and beginners.

Water flossers (like Waterpik) 

These use a gentle stream of water to clean between teeth. They’re ideal for people with braces, bridges, or tight contacts that make string floss tricky. Bonus: they’re fun to use, which can help with consistency. Just make sure to direct the stream of water where you want it to clean, in between each tooth.

A 2023 study published in the Journal of Clinical and Experimental Dentistry found that while all three methods help reduce plaque and improve gum health, water flossers showed a slight edge in reducing bleeding and inflammation, especially in patients with orthodontic appliances or periodontal concerns. Still, traditional floss remains highly effective when used properly.

So, which one is best for you? It depends on your mouth, your habits, and what you’ll actually use every day. 

If you’re not sure, just ask us during your next visit to Park Slope Dentistry Seventh Avenue—we’ll help you find a routine that works for your lifestyle.

How Do I Get Into a Flossing Routine That Actually Sticks?

We get it—starting (and keeping) a flossing habit can feel like a lot, especially when life in Park Slope is already busy. But with a few simple tricks, it can become part of your everyday rhythm, just like grabbing your morning coffee or walking the dog in Prospect Park.

Here are a few tips that work:

  • Tie it to something you already do. Brush your teeth? Time to floss. Set the same cue every night—it builds muscle memory.

  • Set a gentle reminder. Sticky note on the mirror, a phone alert, or a reminder from your kids—whatever works!

  • Try flossing while doing something else. Watching TV? Scrolling through Instagram? Use that time to floss and make it feel less like a chore. (But try not to gross out your roommates or partner)!

  • Make it easier with the right tools. Floss picks, soft string, or water flossers can feel less awkward, especially at first.

  • Keep it visible. Out of sight, out of mind—so store your floss where you can’t miss it.

For kids, try a sticker chart or flavored floss. For adults, be kind to yourself. If you miss a day, just start again tomorrow—progress over perfection, always.

Key Takeaways

  • Floss once a day—before or after brushing, whichever works for you.

  • Flossing helps prevent gum disease, cavities, and bad breath.

  • Whether you use string floss, picks, or a water flosser, the best type is the one you’ll actually use.

  • Build the habit by keeping floss visible and tying it to your daily routine.

  • Bleeding gums? That’s often a sign to floss more, not less.

  • Not sure if you’re doing it right? Just ask—we’re here to help.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Realistically? Once a day is perfect. If you miss a day here and there, don’t worry—just get back into the habit when you can. It’s more about consistency over perfection.

  • Yes, absolutely! Flossing twice a day is safe, especially if you tend to get food stuck between your teeth or want an extra-clean feeling. Just be gentle, so you don’t irritate your gums.

  • Actually, flossing is still recommended by dentists and hygienists. A few years ago, there was confusion when federal guidelines didn't mention it due to limited large-scale studies. But dental experts—including the ADA—continue to recommend flossing daily to prevent plaque buildup, gum disease, and cavities. The benefits are well-supported by clinical practice and newer studies.

  • The 2-2-2 rule is a simple guideline:

    • Brush twice a day,

    • For 2 minutes each time,

    • And visit your dentist 2 times a year.

    It’s a great way to keep your mouth healthy between checkups!

  • Item descriptioThe 3-3-3 rule is sometimes mentioned for kids' or braces care:

    • Brush 3 times a day,

    •  For 3 minutes,

    •  And try to do it after the 3 main meals.

    It’s a more intensive routine, often recommended for people with extra dental needs.

  • Brushing is essential, but it only cleans about 60% of your tooth surfaces. The spaces between your teeth and just under the gums need floss to stay healthy. So, skipping floss means leaving behind plaque and bacteria that can lead to gum disease and cavities. Think of brushing and flossing as a team—you really need both for the best care.

 

Still Not Sure If You’re Flossing Right? We Can Help

If you're feeling unsure about your flossing technique—or wondering if you're doing enough—you’re not alone. A lot of people aren’t quite sure if they’re flossing correctly, and that’s totally okay.

That’s what we’re here for.

During your next visit to Park Slope Dentistry Seventh Avenue, just ask! Our friendly hygiene team is happy to walk you through it step by step—no judgment, no pressure. We’ll show you exactly how to floss for your specific smile, whether you’ve got tight teeth, braces, or sensitive gums.

And don’t forget—regular dental exams and professional cleanings are just as important as your at-home care. Coming in every six months helps us catch small issues before they become bigger problems. It also gives you a chance to ask questions, get tips, and leave feeling confident in your routine.

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We’re right on Seventh Avenue and always happy to see you.

Let’s make flossing feel easy together.