Q
Dr. Burhenne, how bad is not flossing? I brush twice a day, my gums don’t bleed, and my teeth are healthy. I haven’t flossed for years now and I still have my teeth and no pain. How bad is it really?
A
Many people wonder whether flossing is necessary, especially when there’s no visible food trapped between the teeth. The simple answer is that brushing alone misses the narrow spaces where plaque and bacteria accumulate.
Think of it like skipping the vacuum under your bed while you clean the rest of the room: out of sight doesn’t mean out of mind. Bacteria colonize along the gumline and between teeth — places a toothbrush can’t fully reach.
Even if you don’t see debris, microscopic bacteria build up every day. Left unchecked, these colonies attach to the sides of your teeth, roots, and the areas where gums meet teeth.
Bad Breath, Heart Disease & Weight Gain
A small amount of bacteria becomes a problem because of the way your body responds. When the immune system detects this buildup, it mounts an inflammatory response to control the invasion.
This chronic inflammation damages the collagen and connective fibers that anchor teeth in the jaw. Over time, destruction of these fibers can lead to loose teeth and eventual tooth loss.
Beyond the mouth, chronic oral inflammation is linked with systemic effects. Research has associated poor oral health and persistent inflammation with conditions such as heart disease and dementia, and some studies suggest connections to metabolic changes that may contribute to weight gain.
Neglecting flossing increases the risk of tooth loss and contributes to systemic inflammation that may affect long-term health. It’s also a common cause of persistent bad breath.
Brushing is important, but it usually addresses only about half of what needs to be cleaned. Flossing targets the spaces brushing misses.
What to Do If You Can’t Stand Flossing
If you dislike flossing, there are practical ways to make it easier and more consistent.
- Choose a quality floss that resists fraying and is comfortable to use.
- Select a flavor you enjoy — cinnamon, tea tree, or mild mint can make the routine more pleasant.
- Start very small: commit to flossing one tooth or one area per day to build the habit gradually.
- Try waxed floss, which often slides more smoothly between tight contacts.
- Consider a floss pick or flossing tool with a handle if maneuvering traditional floss is awkward. A handled flosser can make reaching back teeth simpler for many people.
Picture painting a fence: you can cover the front and back, but if you skip the tight, inner edges the structure will still decay. The same principle applies to oral hygiene—comprehensive cleaning prevents hidden trouble.
Mark Burhenne DDS
Learn More:The Psychology of Flossing: How to Make It a Habit For Good