It’s the question almost everyone thinks but rarely asks out loud:
Can my dentist actually tell if I don’t floss?
Spoiler alert: Yes, we can. But this blog isn’t here to guilt-trip you, it’s here to explain why flossing matters, what dentists really notice, and how even small improvements to your dental routine can make a big difference in your long-term oral health.
At Williams, Daily & Frazier Dental in Raleigh, NC, we want you to feel confident, not confused, when it comes to your dental care. This guide breaks down the basics of dental crowns, when you might need one, and how they can protect your teeth for the long haul.
Whether you’re new to flossing or have been avoiding it for years, here’s what you need to know, straight from your friendly dental team in Raleigh, NC.
Brushing your teeth twice a day is a solid start, but it only reaches about 60% of your tooth surfaces. The remaining 40%? That’s what floss is for.
When you skip flossing, plaque, food particles, and bacteria build up between your teeth and along the gumline. Over time, that buildup can lead to:
And here’s the thing: even if you’re brushing and using mouthwash, those tight spaces between your teeth still need attention.
At Williams, Daily & Frazier Dental, we’ve seen thousands of smiles, and it’s pretty easy to spot the signs when flossing is missing from the routine.
So yes, we can tell if you’ve been skipping. But we’re not here to judge. We’re here to help you improve and avoid long-term issues.
Flossing isn’t just about removing spinach from your smile (although that helps). It’s about disrupting the bacteria colonies that grow between your teeth.
According to the American Dental Association, flossing daily plays a key role in preventing tooth decay and gum disease. When combined with brushing, it helps remove plaque and food particles that can cause irritation, infection, and long-term damage.
It’s a small investment of time (less than two minutes a day!) that pays off in healthier gums, fewer cavities, and fresher breath.
Like any habit, flossing takes a little time to stick, but it gets easier (and more rewarding) the more you do it.
Stick with it for a week or two, and you’ll notice fresher breath, healthier gums, and a more confident smile.
We get it, not everyone loves flossing. Some people find it awkward. Others struggle with tight teeth or sensitive gums. Here are a few alternatives and tips that make flossing easier:
Water flossers (like the Waterpik®) use pulsating streams of water to clean between your teeth. They’re gentle, effective, and especially helpful for people with braces or bridges.
Floss picks are a great option if traditional string floss feels like too much of a hassle. Keep a few in your car, desk, or bag for easy access.
If your teeth are close together, waxed floss can slide more comfortably.
You don’t need to floss aggressively, just once a day, with gentle pressure, is enough to see results.
If you haven’t flossed in years, that’s okay. The best time to start was yesterday. The second-best time is today.
Your gums might bleed a bit when you start, but that’s a sign they’re healing. Within a week or two of regular flossing, you’ll likely see:
At our Raleigh, NC dental office, we’re here to support you, not shame you. If flossing is new or uncomfortable, bring it up at your next visit. We’ll walk you through techniques, tools, and tips to help you succeed.
Flossing may seem like a small thing, but it plays a huge role in your long-term oral health. If it’s been a while since your last cleaning or you want help improving your home care routine, come see us.
At Williams, Daily & Frazier Dental, we offer gentle, compassionate care and practical guidance to help you feel confident about your smile. From preventative dentistry to personalized home care advice and everything in between, we’re here for you every step of the way.
👉 Schedule your appointment today and let’s get your smile back on track.