Is it worse to skip brushing your teeth or flossing? Here’s what dentists say
Maintaining good oral hygiene is crucial for your overall health, and two core habits—brushing and flossing—play a key role. But if you’re in a rush and can only do one, which should it be? According to dental experts, skipping flossing might do more damage than missing your daily brushing.
Brushing vs. flossing: which is more important?
The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends brushing your teeth twice a day for two minutes using a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. It also advises flossing at least once daily. But these aren’t interchangeable tasks.
“Flossing and brushing isn’t really an either/or equation for optimum health,” says Dr. Ann Laurent, DDS, of Dr. Ann Laurent’s Dental Artistry in Lafayette, Louisiana. “However, if you had to pick one, flossing is more important—if done correctly.”
Both brushing and flossing are designed to remove plaque, the sticky film of bacteria that builds up on teeth. While brushing targets the front and back surfaces, flossing reaches between the teeth and under the gums—critical areas where harmful bacteria often thrive.
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Failing to remove plaque from these tight spaces can result in gingivitis, periodontitis, and even tooth loss. Worse, these gum diseases are linked to broader health risks, including heart disease and diabetes.
Why flossing matters more than you think
The most dangerous bacteria often hide in the tight spots that your toothbrush simply can’t reach. That’s where dental floss becomes essential. By sliding floss in a “C” shape around each tooth and moving it gently below the gumline, you disrupt and remove these bacteria colonies before they can do harm.
Correct flossing techniques matter:
- Wrap the floss in a C-shape around the tooth
- Cover about half the tooth’s diameter
- Move up and down along the surface and below the gumline
- When done right, flossing removes plaque from both the outer and inner surfaces of the teeth, as
- well as beneath the gums—areas often missed during brushing.
The health risks of skipping flossing
A 2015 study revealed that many people neglect both brushing and flossing properly, while a 2014 study emphasized that correct flossing depends heavily on habit and self-monitoring. Inconsistent flossing can lead to cavities, bad breath, and serious gum infections.
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Oral hygiene isn’t just about a pretty smile. Poor gum health is increasingly recognized as a risk factor for systemic conditions, such as cardiovascular disease and uncontrolled diabetes. By incorporating flossing into your daily routine, you not only improve oral health but also support whole-body wellness.
Final takeaway
If you’re choosing between brushing and flossing, don’t skip flossing—especially not long term. While brushing is essential, flossing removes the bacteria that cause the most serious oral health issues. Ideally, do both. But if you must choose, reach for the floss.
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