How Many Times Should You Floss Between Teeth for Effective Cleaning?

The use of dental floss?

To effectively use dental floss for cleaning your teeth, it is recommended to gently slide the floss between each tooth and make a C-shape around the base of each tooth.
You should move the floss up and down against the sides of the teeth about 2 to 3 times per tooth.
This helps remove plaque and food particles effectively.
Thank you.

Douglas, 50~59 year old female. Ask Date: 2011/07/14

Dr. Huang Zhicheng reply Dentistry

Dear Douglas,
Hello.
Just as the dental community recommends the Bass brushing technique, where each tooth is brushed ten times, dental floss should also be used at least ten times between each pair of teeth to effectively remove the plaque.
The key is to wrap the floss around the tooth in a "C" shape, applying gentle pressure into the gingival sulcus and moving it up and down.

Wishing you peace and health.
Sincerely,
Dr.
Chih-Cheng Huang
Director, Dental Department
Taoyuan General Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare

Reply Date: 2011/07/14

More Info

When it comes to effectively using dental floss to clean between your teeth, the general recommendation is to floss each space at least 10 times. This is based on the principle that thorough cleaning is necessary to remove plaque and food particles that can contribute to cavities and gum disease.
To maximize the effectiveness of flossing, it’s essential to use the correct technique. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to properly floss:
1. Choose the Right Floss: There are various types of dental floss available, including waxed, unwaxed, and dental tape. Choose one that you find comfortable to use. Waxed floss may slide more easily between tight teeth, while unwaxed floss can be thinner and may be better for wider gaps.

2. Use Enough Floss: Cut about 18 to 24 inches of floss. This length allows you to use a clean section of floss for each tooth, which helps prevent the transfer of bacteria from one space to another.

3. Proper Technique:
- Wrap the ends of the floss around your middle fingers, leaving about 1-2 inches of floss to work with.

- Hold the floss tightly between your thumbs and index fingers, guiding it gently between your teeth.

- Once the floss reaches the gum line, curve it into a C shape against one tooth and slide it gently beneath the gum line.
- Move the floss up and down against the side of the tooth, making sure to clean both sides of the gap. Repeat this process for each tooth.

4. Flossing Frequency: It is recommended to floss at least once a day. Many people find that doing it before bedtime works best, as it removes food particles and plaque that have accumulated throughout the day.

5. Be Gentle: Avoid snapping the floss into your gums, as this can cause irritation or bleeding. If you experience bleeding, it may be a sign of gum disease, and you should consult with a dentist.

6. Follow Up with Brushing: After flossing, it’s beneficial to brush your teeth. This helps to remove any remaining debris and plaque that may have been dislodged during flossing.

7. Consider Additional Tools: If you find traditional floss difficult to use, consider alternatives such as floss picks, interdental brushes, or water flossers. These can be effective in cleaning between teeth, especially for those with braces or dental work.

In summary, flossing effectively requires not just the number of times you clean between your teeth but also the technique you use. Aim for at least 10 passes per space, ensuring you are thorough and gentle to maintain healthy gums and teeth. Regular flossing, combined with brushing and routine dental check-ups, is key to preventing dental issues and maintaining overall oral health.

Similar Q&A

Is My Oral Hygiene Routine Enough? Expert Advice on Dental Care

Hello, doctor. In the past, I did not pay much attention to dental care, brushing only twice a day and using dental floss sticks, which resulted in several cavities, one root canal, and one molar that is about to be declared for root canal treatment. Currently, my oral hygiene ro...

Dr. Lin Jiayong reply Dentistry
Hello: Based on what you mentioned, it should be quite sufficient. If time permits, you can use different sections of dental floss for cleaning.

Flossing Frequency: Dental Experts Weigh in on Floss vs. Floss Picks

Dental hygienist, do you recommend dental floss or floss picks? For one interproximal space between two teeth, do I need two floss picks or two segments of dental floss? How much dental floss or floss picks should I use in a day? Should I use them after every meal or just at bedt...

Dr. Lin Jiayong reply Dentistry
Hello: It is recommended that you use dental floss, as it can bend and adapt to the shape of your teeth for effective cleaning. Use a separate section of floss for each pair of teeth. It is best to clean your teeth immediately after each meal. If the floss becomes frayed, replace...

Brushing vs. Flossing: What's the Right Order for Dental Care?

It is generally recommended to use dental floss before brushing your teeth. This allows you to remove plaque and food particles from between your teeth, making it easier for the toothbrush to clean the surfaces of your teeth effectively. Using dental floss after each meal is not ...

Dr. Lin Qingye reply Dentistry
1. When cleaning your teeth, start by using a toothbrush to thoroughly clean the larger surfaces of your teeth. For areas that the toothbrush cannot reach, dental floss should be used as an adjunct. 2. It is essential to be familiar with the direction and technique of using denta...

How to Clean Between Connected Dental Crowns Effectively?

I would like to inquire about how to clean the area between two adjacent crowns that were recently placed.

Dr. Lin Jiayong reply Dentistry
Hello: You can use super floss or interdental brushes, along with an electric toothbrush and mouthwash for cleaning.