Flossing is one of the most recommended — and most ignored — habits in dentistry. About 30% of Americans never floss, and many who do are making mistakes based on common myths. Let's set the record straight.
Myth 1: If My Gums Bleed When I Floss, I Should Stop
This is actually the opposite of what you should do. Bleeding gums are a sign of inflammation caused by plaque buildup along the gumline. When you floss consistently, the inflammation goes down and the bleeding stops — usually within one to two weeks. If bleeding persists beyond that, schedule an appointment so we can check for gum disease.
Myth 2: Flossing Isn't Really Necessary if I Brush Well
Your toothbrush, no matter how good, can't reach the tight spaces between your teeth. These contact points account for about 35% of your tooth surfaces. Skipping floss means skipping more than a third of the cleaning job. Cavities between teeth are among the most common dental problems we treat — and they're almost entirely preventable with daily flossing.
Myth 3: You Should Floss After Brushing
Dentists actually recommend flossing before brushing. Flossing first loosens plaque and food particles, allowing the fluoride in your toothpaste to reach between teeth more effectively. The order matters more than most people realize.
Myth 4: Mouthwash Can Replace Flossing
Mouthwash is a great addition to your routine, but it can't physically remove the sticky plaque biofilm that adheres to tooth surfaces. Only the mechanical action of floss (or an interdental brush) can do that.
Myth 5: Kids Don't Need to Floss
Children should start flossing as soon as they have two teeth that touch — usually around age two or three. Parents should help with flossing until kids develop the manual dexterity to do it themselves, typically around age eight. Building the habit early is key.