Brushing vs. Flossing: Why You Need Both

If you brush your teeth regularly but skip the floss, you’re definitely not alone – and we won’t judge you. Many people think brushing does all the heavy lifting, but the truth is, brushing and flossing work best together.

What Brushing Does Best

Brushing helps clear away plaque, bacteria, and food particles from the surfaces of your teeth and tongue. It also helps keep your breath fresh and gives your mouth that clean feeling. Using a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste twice a day is a strong foundation for any oral care routine. Be sure to brush for at least two minutes each time, reaching every surface, including along the gumline.

Why Flossing Matters Too

Your toothbrush can’t reach between your teeth or just under the gumline where plaque can hide. That’s where flossing comes in. Flossing helps clean those tight spaces and supports healthy gums by reducing buildup that could lead to irritation. Skipping this step allows bacteria to remain in those hard-to-reach areas, even if you’re brushing thoroughly. (It might seem like a small step, but it goes a long way.)

Making Both a Daily Habit

Together, brushing and flossing help keep your mouth cleaner and more comfortable between dental visits. If you tend to forget to floss, try setting a reminder or keeping floss near your toothbrush as a visual cue. You might also find it helpful to use floss picks or water flossers if traditional floss feels tricky. Consistency is key, even if you start with just a few days a week and build from there.

Need help fine-tuning your brushing and flossing routine? Schedule a visit and get tips tailored to your smile.