Brushing your teeth is second nature for most people, but flossing can be easy to skip. Still, cleaning between your teeth is one of the most important parts of maintaining a healthy mouth.
If you’ve ever wondered how often you should floss or whether you’re doing it right, this guide breaks it down. Whether you’re looking after your teeth or helping your kids with their routine, here’s what you need to know.
How often should I floss?
For most people, flossing daily is enough to keep gums healthy and prevent plaque from building up between the teeth. The timing isn’t as important as consistency. Whether it’s in the morning or before bed, what matters is that it becomes part of your daily routine.
Skipping flossing regularly can lead to gum irritation, bad breath, or early signs of gum disease. If you’re not flossing every day, aim to start small and build the habit over time.
| Age Group | Recommended Flossing Frequency | Key Notes |
| Toddlers (2–3 yrs) | Once a day (with help) | Start when two teeth touch. Parents should assist using floss picks or holders. |
| Children (4–12 yrs) | Once a day | Continue supervised flossing until they can manage independently. |
| Teens (13–17 yrs) | Once a day | Encourage consistency. Flossing is crucial if wearing braces or aligners. |
| Adults (18–64 yrs) | Once a day | Maintain regular flossing as part of daily oral care. |
| Seniors (65+ yrs) | Once a day (adjust if needed) | May require alternatives (e.g. floss threaders, water flossers). Ask your dentist if unsure. |
How often should kids floss
It’s important to start flossing early – usually when two teeth first touch, which can be around age 2 or 3. At this stage, children won’t be able to manage it on their own, so parents will need to help. Using floss picks or holders can make the process easier and more comfortable for small hands.
How often should you floss your child’s teeth? Once a day is ideal, just like adults. Building this habit early helps prevent decay between teeth and makes flossing feel normal as they grow. As kids get older, continue to guide them until they can do it confidently themselves.
How often should seniors floss
As we get older, flossing can become more difficult – arthritis, limited mobility, or dental work like bridges and implants can make daily flossing harder to manage.
Even in later years, flossing once a day is still recommended. Regular flossing remains one of the best ways to prevent gum disease and maintain oral health.
For those with dexterity issues, alternatives like floss threaders, wider dental tape, or water flossers can make flossing more manageable. If standard flossing becomes too uncomfortable or ineffective, speak to your dentist about options that suit your needs.
Not sure what approach is right for you? The table below outlines simple flossing tips based on different needs.
| Situation | Recommended Flossing Approach |
| Still independent with brushing/flossing | Floss once daily using regular floss or dental tape. |
| Arthritis or reduced hand mobility | Use floss picks, wider grip floss holders, or water flossers for ease. |
| Wearing partial or full dentures | Floss natural teeth once a day. Clean dentures as per the dentist’s advice. |
| Dental implants or bridges | Use floss threaders or specialised implant floss to clean around hardware. |
| Cognitive decline or memory loss | Caregivers may need to assist with daily flossing and hygiene reminders. |
| Gum sensitivity or bleeding | Floss gently; ask your dentist if alternative tools are needed. |
Why flossing is important
Flossing reaches the tight spaces your toothbrush can’t. Even with good brushing habits, food and plaque often get stuck between the teeth and along the gumline. Over time, this can lead to bigger problems.
Daily flossing helps prevent:
- Plaque buildup – Floss removes plaque before it hardens into tartar.
- Gum disease – Regular flossing lowers the risk of bleeding gums, swelling, and infection.
- Tooth decay – Food caught between teeth can break down enamel and cause cavities.
- Bad breath – Flossing helps clear bacteria that contribute to unpleasant odours.
How often should I floss after dental procedures?
After certain dental treatments, you might wonder if your flossing routine should change. While daily flossing is still important, the way you floss and when you start again can depend on the procedure and your dentist’s advice.
After Fillings or Crowns
You can usually resume flossing gently the day after treatment unless told otherwise. Take care around the area and avoid pulling the floss upwards, as this can loosen a new filling or crown. Slide it out gently instead.
After Tooth Extractions
Skip flossing near the extraction site until it has healed, usually about 7 to 10 days. Flossing around other teeth should continue as normal unless your dentist says to pause. Keeping the rest of your mouth clean supports healing.
After Getting Braces or Aligners
Flossing becomes more important with braces, as food and plaque build up quickly around brackets. Special tools like floss threaders or orthodontic floss can make daily flossing easier. For clear aligners, floss before putting them back in to keep your teeth clean and prevent decay.
After Dental Implants
Flossing daily is crucial to protect the gums and bone around your implant. Your dentist may recommend a specific floss or tool designed for implants to avoid damaging the tissue.
Should I keep flossing if my gums bleed?
If your gums bleed when you floss, it’s usually a sign they’re inflamed, not that you should stop. Bleeding is common when you start flossing or it’s been a while since your last proper clean. In most cases, the bleeding will ease within a few days of regular, gentle flossing.
Gums can become swollen or sensitive when plaque builds up along the gumline. By removing that plaque, flossing helps reduce the inflammation over time. The key is to be gentle – avoid snapping the floss or forcing it between your teeth.
If your gums continue to bleed after a week or two, or if they’re sore or swollen, it’s worth checking in with your dentist. Early signs of gum disease are easier to treat when caught early.
Are there times I don’t have to floss?
Missing a day now and then won’t undo all your efforts, but making it a habit to skip flossing can lead to problems over time. Plaque starts forming quickly and can harden into tartar within 24 to 36 hours. Once that happens, only a dentist can remove it.
Everyday floss routine: Simple tips
- Choose a consistent time – Floss at the same time each day, like after brushing at night.
- Find the right floss – Try different options like waxed floss, floss picks, or water flossers to see what works best for you.
- Start small – Even flossing a few teeth to begin with can help you form the habit.
- Make it a family task – Encourage kids by flossing together or turning it into part of their bedtime routine.
How your dentist can help with flossing
During your regular check-up, your dentist can:
- Show you how to floss properly without hurting your gums
- Recommend the right type of floss for your teeth or dental work
- Check for early signs of gum disease
- Help your kids learn good habits early
If flossing has always felt uncomfortable or hard to keep up with, bring it up at your next visit.
Need help with your dental routine?
Flossing is one of the simplest ways to protect your teeth and gums, but we know every mouth is different. If you’re not sure what type of floss to use, how to help your kids get started, or how often you should be flossing, we’re here to help.
We offer friendly, practical advice at our Stanthorpe and Warwick dental clinics, supporting families across the Granite Belt and Southern Downs region. Whether you’re nearby or live in one of the surrounding communities, you’re always welcome.
Have a question or need to book a visit? Give us a call or make an appointment online today.
