How to Make Flossing Easier

July 21, 2022

We all know how important flossing is for preventing gum disease, but we don’t always do it as much as we should. It can be seen as a mundane, boring, or even painful task. However, if you floss the right way with the right methods, it can actually be enjoyable as opposed to a chore! Follow these tips and tricks for having a more enjoyable flossing experience each night and morning.



Choose the Right Type of Floss

Did you know that there are many different types of floss? Picking the right one for you can make flossing much more enjoyable. Waxed floss is most commonly used, and it’s made of nylon material. The wax allows the floss to be stronger, which means it most likely won’t break or shred apart. It also helps the floss glide between the teeth more smoothly. However, since the wax makes the floss thicker, it’s not ideal for those with little to no gaps in their teeth.


Unwaxed floss has no wax or chemicals, which also means it has no artificial flavoring. It’s better for those who have smaller gaps in their teeth, since unwaxed floss is much thinner. However, since it is thinner, it’s more prone to shredding apart while flossing.

PTFE floss is made of a material known as polytetrafluorethylene, which is a strong material that won’t shred or break while you use it. Since it’s smooth, it’s easy to use in between tight gaps or crowded teeth.


Super floss is a special type of floss that is best for individuals with bridges, braces, or wide gaps in their teeth. Super floss comes in different types: regular, spongy floss, and with a stiff end threader. The threader allows you to use the floss under and over bridges, brackets, and other dental fixtures.


Use Enough Floss

Don’t skimp out on the amount of floss you use. If you use a piece that’s too short, not only will flossing not be as effective, but it will keep slipping out of your fingers, which will make for a much more frustrating process. You should use about 12-18 inches of floss. Wrap the dental floss around the middle finger of each hand with a couple of inches in between your hands.

This method will allow you to use a clean section of floss between every tooth so you’re not reusing the same piece. Having it tightly wound around your fingers (but not too tight!) will give you more control and precision. This will allow you to target visual food particles and remove more plaque along the gum line.


Be Gentle

Flossing harder doesn’t mean you’re flossing more effectively – in fact, if you floss too aggressively, you can damage your gums. Your gums are extremely sensitive, so if you floss too hard and hurt them, you may associate flossing with pain. However, it should never be painful and you should be as gentle as you can be while still targeting plaque.


Try a Water Flosser

If you can’t seem to stick to a consistent flossing routine, try using a waterpik (also known as a water flosser) to switch it up. This is an appliance that shoots out a highly pressurized stream of water to clean the gums and teeth of plaque and buildup. It also gets rid of any food stuck in between the teeth. Waterpiks tend to not remove as much plaque as regular floss, so try a combination of both.


Schedule Your Appointment Today

To make sure you’re flossing effectively and your gums are healthy, schedule your appointment with Stephens Dentistry today. If you’re wondering, “are dentists supposed to floss your teeth?” The answer is yes they are! They will thoroughly floss your teeth while showing you the appropriate method.


The team at Stephens Dentistry is dedicated to ensuring you have all the tools you need for a healthy smile that lasts a lifetime! Give us a call today to schedule your next appointment.

The post How to Make Flossing Easier appeared first on Stephens Dentistry.

June 24, 2025
Pregnancy is a time of excitement, anticipation, and transformation. As your body adapts to nurture new life, your needs evolve—including your dental care. At Stephens Dentistry, we’re passionate about supporting expectant mothers through every stage of this journey. Understanding the connection between oral health and pregnancy is not just important for your smile, but for the wellbeing of both you and your baby.  How Pregnancy Impacts Oral Health Pregnancy brings about a surge in hormones, especially estrogen and progesterone, which can have a profound effect on your gums and teeth. Many women notice changes in their oral health during pregnancy, including increased sensitivity, swelling, or bleeding gums. These shifts aren't just uncomfortable—they can also signal conditions that need attention to safeguard your overall health. Pregnancy Gingivitis: What You Need to Know One of the most common dental issues during pregnancy is pregnancy gingivitis. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention , up to 60–75% of pregnant women develop gingivitis, which is characterized by red, swollen, and bleeding gums. This occurs because hormonal changes heighten the body’s response to the bacteria in dental plaque. If left untreated, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis—a more serious gum infection that can cause tooth loss and has been linked to health risks beyond the mouth. Oral Health and Birth Outcomes The importance of oral health during pregnancy goes beyond comfort and aesthetics. Research has shown a significant link between maternal gum disease and adverse pregnancy outcomes, such as preterm birth and low birth weight. A systematic review published in the Journal of Dental Research found that women with periodontal disease may be more likely to deliver prematurely or have babies with low birth weights. Although more research is ongoing, the potential connection means that taking care of your gums and teeth is an essential part of prenatal health. Why Dental Care Shouldn’t Wait Some expectant mothers worry about dental treatments during pregnancy. The good news is that routine dental care—including cleanings and necessary treatments—are not only safe but recommended during pregnancy. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists confirms that preventive dental work is important and can be performed safely, especially in the second trimester. Delaying care can allow small problems to become bigger ones, and untreated infections can pose a risk to both you and your baby. If you are planning to become pregnant, scheduling a dental checkup beforehand is an excellent way to get ahead of any issues. Practical Tips for Expectant Mothers Maintaining oral health during pregnancy doesn’t have to be complicated. Here are some tips to keep your smile healthy throughout your pregnancy: Brush and Floss Regularly: Aim to brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and floss daily. This helps remove plaque and reduce your risk of gingivitis. Eat a Balanced Diet: Focus on nutritious foods rich in calcium, vitamin D, and protein, which support both your oral and overall health. Manage Morning Sickness: If you experience vomiting, rinse your mouth with water or a fluoride mouthwash rather than brushing immediately afterward, as stomach acid can soften tooth enamel. Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water helps wash away food particles and bacteria, and can also help combat dry mouth, which is common in pregnancy. Schedule Regular Dental Visits: Let your dental team know you are pregnant so they can tailor your care. At Stephens Dentistry, we take extra precautions to ensure your comfort and safety during each visit. Learn more about our preventive dental services . Recognizing When to Call Your Dentist While mild gum sensitivity is common, it’s important to reach out to your dentist if you notice persistent bleeding, swelling, or pain. These symptoms could indicate an infection that needs prompt attention. If you develop a dental emergency during pregnancy, don’t hesitate to contact your dentist—timely care is always the best choice for both you and your baby. Supporting Your Health at Stephens Dentistry At Stephens Dentistry, we’re committed to providing compassionate, personalized dental care for every stage of life—including pregnancy. Our team stays up-to-date on the latest guidelines and safety protocols to ensure you receive the best care possible. For more information on how we support our patients during pregnancy, visit our dental care for families page. Pregnancy is a beautiful journey, and your smile should be a part of it. Prioritizing your oral health is a gift to yourself and your growing family. If you have questions or want to schedule your next dental visit, contact our office —we’re here to help you every step of the way.
April 29, 2025
Discover the lifelong benefits of restorative dentistry at Stephens Dentistry. Protect your oral health and enhance your smile. Schedule an appointment today.
a man holding his jaw in pain
April 1, 2025
Identify common dental emergencies with Stephens Dentistry. Get essential first aid tips to manage urgent situations effectively. Contact us today for expert advice.
a man sitting in a dentist's chair smiling
March 4, 2025
Explore the latest cosmetic dentistry trends at Stephens Dentistry in Evanston to enhance your smile. Schedule a consultation today for a radiant transformation.
More Posts