Why Brushing Alone Cannot Reach All Areas
A toothbrush is effective for cleaning the outer and inner surfaces of the teeth. However, it cannot reach the tight spaces between teeth, especially in the back areas like the molars.
These small spaces are where plaque, food debris, and bacteria can accumulate without you realizing it. If left untreated, the buildup may lead to interproximal cavities, bad breath, gum inflammation (gingivitis), and tartar formation.
This is why cleaning between teeth using dental floss or floss threaders is an essential part of your oral care routine.
The Important Role of Dental Floss in Oral Health
Dental floss is specifically designed to clean narrow spaces that a toothbrush cannot reach. Benefits of flossing include:
effectively removing plaque between teeth
helping prevent gum inflammation and bleeding
reducing the risk of hidden cavities
improving breath freshness
slowing down tartar buildup
According to the American Dental Association (ADA), proper flossing can remove up to 80% of plaque between the teeth.
How to Use Dental Floss Correctly (Step-by-Step)
To achieve the best results, follow these proper flossing steps:
Take 40–45 cm of dental floss (approximately the length of your arm).
Wrap it around both middle fingers, leaving 5–7 cm in the center as the working area.
Insert the floss gently between your teeth with an up-and-down motion.
Form a C-shape around the tooth and slide it gently toward the gumline to lift plaque.
Clean every interdental space, including the molars at the back.
Use a clean section of floss for each tooth.
Common Flossing Mistakes to Avoid
These habits can make flossing less effective or even harm your gums:
pulling the floss too aggressively
using the same section of floss for all teeth
flossing without a proper sequence, causing some areas to be missed
Always floss gently and systematically.
Choosing the Right Type of Dental Floss
In Indonesia, three types of interdental cleaning tools are widely used: floss thread (traditional floss), floss picks, and water flossers. You can choose based on your needs.
Traditional Dental Floss (Waxed and Unwaxed)
This is the most effective type and widely recommended by dentists.
Waxed: smooth, easy to use, less likely to break → ideal for beginners.
Unwaxed: thinner and excellent for removing plaque → suitable if your interdental spaces are not too tight.
Floss Pick
More practical and easily found at minimarkets.
Easy to use for back teeth
Suitable for beginners and children
Convenient for travel
However, it is not as effective as traditional floss in thoroughly cleaning the contours of the teeth.
Water Flosser
A modern alternative that is increasingly popular.
Ideal for braces users
Cleans hard-to-reach areas
Gentle on sensitive gums
But it is less effective for removing thicker plaque and typically more expensive.
Tip: Use traditional dental floss as your main daily habit, floss picks for quick practicality, and add a water flosser if you wear braces or need extra cleaning.
When Is the Best Time to Floss?
You can floss at any time, but the ideal time is:
before brushing your teeth at night, allowing fluoride to penetrate the interdental spaces
after large meals if food gets stuck
Flossing once a day is enough as long as you stay consistent.
Conclusion
Flossing is not just an extra step; it is an essential part of your oral hygiene routine. By using dental floss correctly, you can prevent cavities, gum inflammation, bad breath, and tartar buildup.
Brushing cleans the tooth surfaces, while dental floss reaches the tight spaces in between. Both must work together for optimal oral health.
Reference
Bosma, M.L., McGuire, J.A., DelSasso, A. et al. Efficacy of flossing and mouth rinsing regimens on plaque and gingivitis: a randomized clinical trial. BMC Oral Health 24, 178 (2024). https://doi.org/10.1186/s12903-024-03924-4
Jung, K., Böttge, B., Kullmann, M., & Ganss, C. (2025). Does proper flossing performance translate into effective plaque removal?. Clinical oral investigations, 29(9), 438. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00784-025-06505-z
