How to Floss, Step-by-Step

(Yes, you need to do this!)

Got a few minutes? Then you have time to floss — an essential part of caring for your smile so you can keep your teeth for life. 

The truth is, skipping flossing is like taking a shower without washing about a third of your body. Ewww. That’s because toothbrushes can’t reach 35% of your teeth’s surfaces. So even if you’re an expert brusher, you need to floss to flash a grin that’s gorgeously clean, fresh, and bright. (Want more proof? Watch this video, if you dare.) 

At Cocofloss, we know flossing can be a fun, relaxing, rewarding self-care treat. Check out our quick instructional video — including a mini dance party! — and follow the easy steps below to learn how to use dental floss like a pro.

1. Unspool about 18 inches — about the width between your shoulders — of your favorite floss (hint, hint: Cocofloss 😉). Take a deep breath — this your time to relax and kindly care for your smile.

2. Twirl the floss 1 to 2 times around your middle finger on one hand.

3. Twirl the floss 1 to 2 times around your middle finger on the other hand.

4. Hold the floss with your pointer fingers and thumbs close together, no more than 1 inch apart.

5. Gently slide the floss between your teeth. Give each side of each tooth a “C”-shaped hug with the floss. Shimmy the floss up and down the sides of the teeth, scrubbing away plaque. 

6. Pull the floss lightly with one hand to move to a clean new section for each tooth space. (Reusing the same section of floss could spread bacterial plaque from one space to another and make the floss more likely to shred.)

Pro flossing tip: Don't forget to floss behind your back molars too! Tucked all the way in the back of your mouth, that last space is easy to forget.

That’s it! Now that you know how to floss your teeth in six easy steps, feel free to add a little music — and some dance moves, too — and you’ve got yourself a floss party! Flossing only takes a few minutes a day, but it rewards you with a smile that’s healthier, fresher, whiter, and more sparkling than ever. Need help making flossing a habit? Join our free 21-Day Floss Challenge!