If you’ve ever stood in front of the bathroom mirror at the end of a long day debating whether to floss… you’re not alone.
We get it. Brushing is second nature for most of us. It’s fast, it’s easy, and we’ve been doing it since we were kids. But flossing? That one tends to fall off the radar more often than we’d like to admit.
So let’s break it down: between brushing and flossing, which one actually matters more?
The short answer? Both. But let’s dig a little deeper—because understanding why can help you build habits that protect your smile for the long haul.
Brushing: Your First Line of Defense
Brushing your teeth—ideally twice a day—is essential. It removes plaque, bacteria, and food particles from the surfaces of your teeth. It also freshens your breath and helps keep your enamel strong (especially when you’re using a fluoride toothpaste).
When you brush correctly (yes, there’s a right way to do it!), you’re targeting the front, back, and chewing surfaces of your teeth. That’s a lot of surface area—and it’s vital. But here’s the kicker: brushing alone doesn’t reach everywhere.
Which brings us to…
Flossing: The Often Skipped but Seriously Important Step
We’re going to be real with you here: if brushing is step one, flossing is step 1.5—not step two.
That’s because flossing gets into the spaces that your toothbrush just can’t reach—between your teeth and below the gumline. These tight spaces are plaque magnets. And when plaque isn’t removed, it hardens into tartar, which leads to gum inflammation (hello, gingivitis), bad breath, and even bone loss over time.
We’re not trying to scare you. We just want to be honest about how much of a game-changer flossing really is.
What the Science Says
Studies show that brushing alone misses up to 35% of your tooth surfaces. That’s more than a third of your mouth not getting cleaned.
In contrast, people who brush and floss daily tend to have:
- Healthier gums
- Lower rates of cavities between teeth
- Less plaque and tartar buildup
- Fresher breath overall
Still not convinced? Imagine cleaning only the top of your dishes after dinner but skipping the sides and the bottom. Sounds gross, right? Same goes for your teeth.
Why Most of Us Still Skip It
Flossing isn’t glamorous. It’s not fast. And if you’ve ever had a bad experience with floss snapping, fraying, or getting stuck, we don’t blame you for avoiding it.
But here’s the good news: there are so many great tools now that make it easier:
- Floss picks (easy and disposable)
- Water flossers (especially great for people with braces or sensitive gums)
- Interdental brushes (tiny brushes that get between teeth)
Find what works for you—and don’t be afraid to ask your dental hygienist for recommendations during your next visit. We’re always happy to help.
So… Which One Should You Prioritize?
If we absolutely had to choose one, brushing takes the lead just slightly—only because it covers more surface area and is more likely to be a consistent habit.
But flossing is what takes your oral hygiene from “good enough” to “top-notch.”
Think of brushing as washing your face and flossing as getting that tricky makeup out of the corners of your eyes. One without the other just doesn’t feel complete.
The Real Secret to a Healthier Smile
Want to keep your smile healthy for years to come? It’s not about choosing one or the other—it’s about building a routine that includes both brushing and flossing, consistently.
Here’s a quick tip: Try flossing first. It loosens plaque and food debris, making brushing more effective afterward. Then finish with a good rinse. The whole routine takes just a few minutes but makes a big difference.
If you ever feel unsure about your technique, or need help finding products that work best for you, just ask us. Our team is here to guide you—not judge you.
Because at the end of the day, we’re not just here to clean your teeth. We’re here to help you build habits that keep your smile strong, confident, and healthy—for life.