How to Floss: Official ADA Video & Visual Guide

PATIENT LEARNING · OFFICIAL SOURCES

Brushing and cleaning between teeth do different jobs. The ADA recommends daily cleaning between teeth because a toothbrush cannot fully reach these spaces. Floss, interdental brushes and water flossers are options to discuss with your dental team.

Technique concept adapted from the ADA’s flossing guidance. The drawing is not to scale. Original illustration by this website; a learning aid, not a diagnostic chart.

Watch: How to Floss Your Teeth

Video by American Dental Association (ADA). English-language video. Loading connects to YouTube. Watch on YouTube ↗

Think gentle contact, not force

Guide the floss carefully into the space. Curve it around one tooth and move along that surface, then clean the side of the neighboring tooth. Avoid pushing sharply into the gums. Persistent pain during cleaning is a reason to ask your dentist for advice.

What if ordinary floss is difficult?

Ask which tool fits your spaces and dexterity. Dental work such as braces or bridges may call for a different approach. Try the recommended method in front of the dental team so they can check your technique.

Make a plan you can keep

Choose a regular time you can maintain.
Ask the team to demonstrate the tool on your own teeth.
Tell the team which areas hurt or are difficult to reach.

There is no required order between brushing and flossing; thorough, regular cleaning is the goal. For changes in your gums, see our gum-health guide.

General educational information, not an individual diagnosis or treatment plan.