How to Floss Correctly: A Step-by-Step Guide for Healthier Teeth and Gums

The correct way to floss is to gently guide the floss between your teeth, curve it into a "C" shape around each tooth, and move it up and down to remove plaque and food debris. Flossing once a day helps clean areas your toothbrush cannot reach.

You've brushed your teeth and you're ready to start your day. Then you remember the floss sitting on the bathroom counter.

"I'll do it tomorrow."

It's a thought many of us have had. Yet flossing is one of the simplest habits you can build for healthier teeth and gums. If you've ever wondered whether you're flossing the right way, this guide will walk you through the process.

Person flossing teeth correctly as part of a daily oral hygiene routine 

Why Does Flossing Matter?

Brushing your teeth removes plaque from the front, back, and chewing surfaces of your teeth. But toothbrush bristles can't effectively clean the tight spaces where two teeth touch.

That's where plaque and food particles often collect.

Over time, plaque left between teeth can contribute to cavities and gum disease. Flossing once a day helps clean these hard-to-reach areas and complements your brushing routine.

How to Floss Your Teeth Properly

Flossing doesn't need to take long. With the right technique, it can become a one- to two-minute habit.

Step 1: Use Enough Floss

Start with about 18 inches (45 cm) of floss. Wind most of it around the middle finger of one hand and the rest around the middle finger of your other hand. This allows you to move to a clean section of floss as you work through your mouth.

Step 2: Hold the Floss Securely

Grip the floss between your thumbs and index fingers, leaving about one to two inches to work with.

Keep the floss taut, but don't pull it so tightly that it becomes difficult to control.

Step 3: Gently Guide the Floss Between Your Teeth

Slide the floss between your teeth using a gentle back-and-forth motion.

Avoid snapping the floss into your gums, as this can cause irritation.

Step 4: Curve the Floss Around Each Tooth

Once the floss reaches the gumline, curve it into a "C" shape around one tooth.

This helps the floss hug the side of the tooth rather than simply passing straight through the gap.

Correct flossing technique showing dental floss cleaning between teeth 

Step 5: Move the Floss Up and Down

Using gentle vertical strokes, move the floss up and down against the tooth surface.

Repeat the same motion on the adjacent tooth before removing the floss.

Step 6: Use a Fresh Section for Each Tooth

As you move around your mouth, unwind a clean section of floss.

Using the same piece repeatedly can transfer plaque and debris from one area to another.

Common Flossing Mistakes

Even people who floss every day sometimes use the wrong technique.

The most common mistakes include:

• Snapping the floss into the gums instead of guiding it gently.

• Skipping the back teeth.

• Flossing only when food gets stuck.

• Sliding the floss straight through without cleaning the sides of each tooth.

• Reusing the same section of floss for the entire mouth.

Small adjustments to your technique can make your routine much more effective.

Does the Type of Floss Matter?

Technique is the most important part of flossing, but the type of floss you choose can also influence your experience.

Some people prefer floss that glides smoothly between teeth, while others prioritize natural materials and sustainability.

Eco friendly oral care products including sustainable dental floss alternatives 

If you're looking for a more environmentally conscious option, Dr. Jen Natural Silk Floss offers a thoughtful alternative to conventional plastic floss.

Made from natural silk, it is completely plastic-free, helping eliminate microplastic exposure during flossing. It also comes in a biodegradable dispenser, making it one of the few floss options where both the floss and its container are biodegradable.

For people trying to reduce single-use plastics without compromising their oral care routine, it's a simple switch that benefits both your smile and the environment.

Build a Habit That Lasts

Try flossing at the same time every day either before bed or after brushing in the morning to make it part of your routine. Keeping your floss where you'll see it can also serve as a helpful reminder.

Like brushing, flossing is less about perfection and more about consistency.

If you're ready to make flossing a habit, start with a floss you'll enjoy using. Add Dr. Jen Natural Silk Floss to your routine today and experience a plastic-free, biodegradable option designed for effective everyday cleaning.