Do I Really Need to Floss Every Day? A Dentist’s Honest Answer
If you’ve ever asked, “Do I really have to floss every day?” — you’re not alone. It’s one of the most Googled dental questions. At ESP Dental in Phoenix, we hear this from patients all the time. The short answer is: Yes, you really should floss daily — and here’s why it matters for your long-term oral health.
🦷 Why Flossing Matters More Than You Think
Flossing isn’t just an optional add-on to brushing — it’s a core part of a complete oral care routine. Your toothbrush cleans the front, back, and chewing surfaces of your teeth. But 40% of your tooth surfaces are between the teeth — areas that your toothbrush can’t reach.
Without flossing, plaque and food particles build up in those tight spaces, increasing your risk of:
Tooth decay
Gum disease (gingivitis or periodontitis)
Bad breath
Tartar (calculus) buildup that requires professional cleaning
🔍 What the Experts Say
The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends flossing once per day to remove plaque and debris between teeth and under the gumline.
Studies show that daily flossing reduces inflammation, bleeding gums, and bacteria that lead to periodontal disease.
If you skip flossing, brushing alone won’t prevent the most common dental problems.
🪥 What If You Struggle With Regular Floss?
Flossing isn’t one-size-fits-all. If you find string floss hard to use, try these alternatives:
Floss picks: Easier to handle and great for on-the-go cleaning
Interdental brushes: Perfect for larger spaces between teeth
Water flossers (like Waterpik®): Gentle and effective for deep cleaning, especially with braces or implants
At ESP Dental, we’ll help you choose the best tool based on your unique dental needs.
✅ Flossing Tips from ESP Dental in Phoenix
Floss before brushing — it loosens debris that your toothbrush can then sweep away
Use a gentle sawing motion to avoid damaging your gums
Don’t skip even if your gums bleed at first — this is a sign of inflammation, and daily flossing will help heal it over time
Ask our team to show you the proper technique during your next visit!
❤️ Your Gums Will Thank You
Flossing daily helps prevent gum disease, the #1 cause of adult tooth loss. Healthy gums also support better heart health and overall wellness. Think of flossing as a 2-minute investment that saves you from costly treatments in the future.
📍 Visit ESP Dental for a Personalized Care Plan
If you’re unsure whether you’re flossing correctly or need help choosing a tool that works for you, we’re here to help! At ESP Dental in Phoenix, AZ, we’re passionate about giving patients the education and care they need for a confident, healthy smile.
📍 Visit us at: 4008 N 33rd Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85017
📞 Call us: (602) 266-9659
🌐 www.espdental.com
