Do You Really Need to Floss If You Brush? Let’s Clear It Up.

The answer? Yes. 100% yes.

‍Brushing and flossing are a team, not a substitute for one another. Each one plays a different role in keeping your teeth and gums healthy. At Archer Dental, we’re here to clear up the myth that brushing alone is enough—and explain exactly why flossing deserves a permanent spot in your daily routine.

Myth: Flossing Isn’t Necessary If You Brush Well

Truth: Flossing Removes Plaque Between Teeth That Brushing Can’t Reach

Brushing your teeth is absolutely essential—but no matter how thorough you are, your toothbrush can’t reach the tight spaces between your teeth. Those narrow gaps are where plaque and food particles love to hide. And if you’re not flossing, you’re giving bacteria a free pass to set up shop in the very places your brush can’t touch.

That hidden plaque eventually hardens into tartar, which leads to gum irritation, bad breath, and eventually, gum disease. Flossing cleans the 30–40% of tooth surfaces that brushing leaves behind. It’s not an “extra”—it’s a must.

Think of it like washing your hands without cleaning between your fingers. Sure, you’re doing most of the work—but you’re leaving behind the exact places where germs like to live.

What Happens If You Skip Flossing?

We get it. Flossing takes a little more time and effort. But skipping it can lead to long-term consequences that go beyond just a lecture from your hygienist.

When plaque builds up between teeth, it can cause inflammation in the surrounding gums. This early stage of gum disease is called gingivitis, and it’s often painless—until it’s not. Over time, that inflammation can progress into periodontitis, a more serious infection that affects the bone supporting your teeth.

Patients who don’t floss regularly may experience:

• Bleeding gums
  
  
• Bad breath
  
  
• Recesión de las encías
  
  
• Tooth sensitivity
  
  
• Loosening or shifting teeth
  
  

The good news? These issues are almost entirely preventable with consistent flossing and regular dental checkups.

Brushing vs. Flossing: Why You Need Both

Brushing removes plaque from the front, back, and chewing surfaces of your teeth. Flossing removes it from the sides—where two teeth touch and where your toothbrush can’t reach. You really do need both to maintain full coverage.

Think of brushing as sweeping the floor. It cleans the open areas, but it won’t get into the corners or under the furniture. That’s where flossing comes in—it reaches the places that brushing alone can’t.

Some patients try to substitute with mouthwash or water flossers. While those can be great supplements, they don’t physically remove sticky plaque the same way flossing does. Nothing beats the old-fashioned up-and-down motion of floss hugging each tooth.

How to Floss the Right Way

Flossing only takes a couple of minutes once you get into the habit—but technique matters. If you’re rushing or just snapping the floss in and out, you’re not getting the full benefit (and you might be hurting your gums).

Here’s a quick refresher on how to floss properly:

1. Use about 18 inches of dental floss. Wrap most of it around your middle fingers, leaving a few inches to work with.
   
   
2. Gently guide the floss between two teeth using a back-and-forth motion. Don’t force it.
   
   
3. Curve the floss around each tooth in a “C” shape and slide it up and down under the gumline.
   
   
4. Use a clean section of floss for each tooth.
   
   
5. Be gentle—no sawing motions or snapping. You’re cleaning, not carving!
   
   

If you’re using floss picks or a water flosser, we can help you make sure your technique is effective at your next visit.

Don’t Let Bleeding Gums Scare You Off

One of the biggest reasons patients avoid flossing? Bleeding gums. But here’s the thing: bleeding is often a sign that your gums need more attention, not less. It’s typically caused by inflammation due to plaque buildup, and it will often stop once you begin flossing consistently.

Stick with it. After about a week of daily flossing, you’ll likely see the bleeding reduce or disappear entirely. If it doesn’t, that could be a sign of deeper gum issues, and it’s a good idea to schedule a dental evaluation.

The worst thing you can do is take bleeding as a reason to stop flossing—when in reality, it’s a signal that flossing is working.

What If I Have Braces, Bridges, or Tight Contacts?

Flossing can be more challenging if you have orthodontic appliances or dental work—but it’s even more important in those cases. Braces and bridges create extra spaces where plaque can collect, and those tight contacts? They’re prime real estate for food particles and bacteria.

If standard floss isn’t doing the trick, try:

• Floss threaders: These help guide floss under wires and bridges.
  
  
• Superfloss: Pre-cut sections with a stiffened end and spongy middle, designed for complex areas.
  
  
• Water flossers: While not a replacement, they’re great for rinsing debris and reducing inflammation.
  
  

We’re happy to help you find the tools and techniques that work best for your smile. There’s no one-size-fits-all solution—we’ll help you customize your approach.

Make Flossing a Daily Habit—Your Gums Will Thank You

At the end of the day, flossing isn’t optional. It’s an essential part of keeping your teeth and gums healthy for the long haul. Even if your brushing game is strong, skipping floss means you’re leaving behind bacteria that can quietly cause big problems.

Start small—floss just one section of your mouth each night and build the habit gradually. Once you get used to the feeling (and the fresher breath), you’ll wonder why you waited so long.

Ready to Level Up Your Oral Routine?

Whether you’re a flossing pro or still getting the hang of it, we’re here to support you. At Archer Dental, we believe great dental care starts with everyday habits—and we’re happy to help you master the ones that make a difference.

Visit us at 5200 S Archer Ave, Ste #3, Chicago, IL 60632, or request an appointment online to schedule your next cleaning. We’ll help you fine-tune your routine and keep your smile healthy, strong, and fully flossed.

Because flossing isn’t optional—and neither is your health.

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