When it comes to oral hygiene, most of us focus only on brushing. But brushing alone cleans only about 60% of your teeth surfaces. The other 40%—the tight spaces between your teeth—remain unclean. That’s where flossing comes in.
Many people still ask: What is flossing? How to floss teeth properly? Is water flossing better than string floss? In this blog, we’ll answer all these questions, explore different ways of flossing, and help you choose the best way to floss for healthy teeth and gums.
What is Flossing?
Flossing is the process of cleaning between your teeth to remove food particles and plaque that your toothbrush cannot reach. It’s an essential step to prevent cavities, gum disease, and bad breath. Think of flossing as the missing piece in your daily oral care routine.
Different Ways of Flossing
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Traditional String Floss
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A thin nylon or Teflon thread that slides between teeth.
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Very effective when used with the right technique.
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Floss Picks
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Disposable tools with a short piece of floss attached to a handle.
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Convenient for on-the-go flossing.
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Interdental Brushes
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Tiny brushes designed to clean between wider gaps in teeth.
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Great for people with braces or dental work.
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Water Flossers (Oral Irrigators)
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Devices that spray a jet of water to remove plaque and debris.
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Easy to use, gentle on gums, and effective for people with braces, implants, or sensitive gums.
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(💡 Dr. Shrub’s GUSH Water Flosser makes flossing simple, effective, and eco-friendly.)
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Traditional Floss vs. Water Flosser: Which is Better?
| Feature | Traditional String Floss | Water Flosser |
|---|---|---|
| Ease of Use | Requires proper technique; tricky for back teeth | Very easy to use, even for kids, elderly, or people with limited mobility |
| Effectiveness | Good for tight spaces if done correctly | Cleans deep between teeth and along the gumline; removes up to 99.9% plaque |
| Gum Comfort | May cause bleeding if used harshly | Gentle on gums, reduces bleeding and inflammation |
| Braces / Implants Friendly | Difficult with braces or wires | Perfect for braces, bridges, implants, and crowns |
| Time Taken | 3–5 minutes | 1–2 minutes |
| Hygiene | Disposable, single-use | Reusable, sustainable, eco-friendly |
| Best For | People with tight tooth gaps | People with sensitive gums, braces, implants, or who want convenience |
What is the Best Way to Floss?
The best way to floss depends on your lifestyle and dental needs:
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If you’re comfortable and patient, traditional string floss works well.
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For quick cleaning, floss picks are handy.
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For maximum effectiveness, especially with braces or implants, a water flosser is highly recommended.
Dentists agree that the best way to floss teeth properly is the one you can do consistently, every single day.
Long-Term Benefits of Flossing
Flossing every day is more than just removing food stuck in your teeth. It’s a habit that brings lifelong benefits:
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Prevents cavities between teeth
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Reduces gum inflammation and bleeding
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Fights bad breath caused by trapped food
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Lowers risk of gum disease (gingivitis & periodontitis)
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Protects overall health—gum health is linked to heart and diabetes care
This is why dentists always say: flossing daily adds years to your smile.
FAQs About Traditional and Water Flossing
1. Do I need to floss if I brush twice a day?
Yes! Brushing cleans the front and back of your teeth, but flossing removes plaque and bacteria hiding between them.
2. Which is better: traditional floss or water flosser?
Both are good. Traditional floss works well for tight gaps, while water flossers are easier, faster, and more effective for people with braces, implants, or sensitive gums.
3. Is water flossing as effective as string flossing?
Yes. Studies show water flossers can remove up to 99.9% of plaque from treated areas, and they’re gentler on gums.
4. Can I replace string floss with a water flosser?
For most people, yes. Water flossers are safe and effective. Some dentists suggest using both occasionally for best results.
5. How often should I floss?
Once a day is enough—whether with string floss or a water flosser. The key is consistency.
6. Does flossing really prevent gum disease?
Absolutely. Gum disease starts between the teeth, and flossing is the most effective way to stop it before it starts.
Conclusion
Flossing is not optional—it’s an essential part of oral care. Whether you prefer string floss, floss picks, or the convenience of a water flosser like Dr. Shrub’s GUSH, what matters is building a daily habit. A few minutes of flossing each day will give you healthier gums, fresher breath, and a brighter smile for life.