The primary role of flossing is to clean the interdental spaces, removing the bacterial film known as plaque from between the teeth and beneath the gumline. The answer to whether it is too late to begin is no, as starting a flossing routine today can immediately halt the progression of existing problems and initiate the healing process. This proactive step can significantly improve oral health, regardless of how long the habit has been ignored.
Immediate Benefits of Starting Now
Flossing provides an immediate, positive effect by physically removing plaque from the 35% of tooth surface area that a toothbrush cannot effectively reach. This mechanical removal disrupts the colonies of bacteria that cause gum inflammation, which is the root cause of bleeding and soreness. Within the first few days of starting a consistent flossing routine, a person will notice a cleaner feeling in their mouth and a reduction in the film of bacteria on their teeth.
The most rapid and noticeable benefit is the reversal of gingivitis, the earliest stage of gum disease characterized by red, swollen, and easily bleeding gums. When flossing begins, the inflamed gum tissue reacts by bleeding initially, but this discomfort is temporary and a sign that the gums are healing as the irritant is removed. For most people, this bleeding and tenderness should start to decrease within about a week and fully resolve within 10 to 14 days of consistent flossing. Starting now stops the disease process from advancing, preventing progression to more severe, permanent damage.
Damage Flossing Cannot Reverse
While flossing can completely reverse gingivitis, it has limitations once the disease advances to periodontitis. Periodontitis is a more severe infection that has caused structural damage to the tissues and bone supporting the teeth. When the inflammation goes unchecked, the gums begin to detach from the tooth surface, creating spaces called periodontal pockets that collect bacteria and hardened plaque, known as calculus or tartar.
Flossing cannot remove the tartar that has formed deep within these pockets or beneath the gumline, nor can it regenerate bone that has already been lost. The destruction of the jawbone, which anchors the teeth, is an irreversible consequence of periodontitis and can lead to loose teeth or eventual tooth loss. Existing damage requires professional dental procedures like scaling and root planing—a deep cleaning designed to remove calculus from the root surfaces. Daily flossing, even after these procedures, remains important to prevent the disease from progressing further.
Practical Steps for Starting Flossing
Begin by using about 18 inches of floss, wrapping most of it around one middle finger and a small amount around the other to collect the used portion. The correct technique involves holding the floss taut between the thumbs and forefingers and gently sliding it between the teeth, avoiding a snapping motion that can injure the gums. Once between the teeth, curve the floss into a “C” shape against one tooth. Slide it gently into the space between the tooth and the gum until slight resistance is felt.
Move the floss up and down several times to scrape the plaque away, then repeat the process on the adjacent tooth surface before moving to the next interdental space. For those who find string floss challenging, alternatives include floss picks, which offer convenience, and water flossers, which use a stream of water to flush out debris. Water flossers are helpful for individuals with braces, dental work, or dexterity issues. If bleeding or pain persists for more than two weeks of consistent, gentle flossing, consult a dental professional, as this may indicate advanced disease or a need for professional cleaning.