Does Flossing Create Gaps in Between Teeth?

If you’ve ever worried that flossing could cause gaps between your teeth, you’re not alone.

It’s a common misconception that using dental floss might widen the space between teeth or loosen them over time.

The truth is that flossing is one of the most effective ways to maintain healthy gums and prevent oral health issues – and it doesn’t create gaps.

What many people interpret as “new” gaps appearing is often just a sign that flossing is working.

Here's what's actually happening, and why you shouldn't skip flossing...

Why it feels like flossing causes gaps between teeth

It can be surprising to feel extra space between your teeth after adding flossing to your routine.

But this shift is not caused by flossing itself – it's usually the result of changes in your gum tissue or the removal of hidden plaque.

Here’s what could be happening:

1) You're removing plaque and tartar

Over time, plaque and tartar build up in the small spaces between your teeth and along the gumline. When you start flossing, you're cleaning out this build-up.

That can sometimes make teeth feel looser or create the illusion of more space. In reality, your teeth haven’t moved – they’ve just been cleaned properly for the first time in a while.

2) Your gums are healthier

If your gums were inflamed or puffy due to gingivitis or plaque irritation, they may shrink slightly once regular flossing begins to reduce inflammation.

This improvement in gum health can expose the natural contours of your teeth, giving the impression of new gaps – when in fact, it’s a positive sign that your gums are recovering.

3) You're more aware of tooth position

Flossing helps you become more familiar with the unique shape and alignment of your teeth.

You may start to notice spacing or overlap that was always there, simply because you’re now interacting more closely with your mouth.

It’s also possible that food debris or plaque was previously “filling in” these spaces, and flossing has just made them more visible.

The benefits of daily flossing

Far from creating problems, flossing delivers serious oral health benefits when done correctly. Here’s how daily flossing supports your teeth and gums:

• Reduces plaque and cavities: Flossing removes food particles and plaque from between your teeth, where toothbrush bristles can't reach. This helps to prevent the build-up of bacteria that can cause cavities.
• Prevents gum disease: By cleaning along the gumline, flossing helps reduce the risk of gum disease (gingivitis and periodontitis), which can lead to gum recession and tooth loss if left untreated.
• Prevents bad breath: Food particles that are trapped between your teeth can contribute to bad breath. Flossing helps remove these particles, leaving your mouth feeling fresher.
• Supports overall oral hygiene: It completes your daily routine, helping to protect the areas brushing can't get to.
  

How to floss teeth properly

Getting the technique right is crucial. Flossing should be gentle but effective – done incorrectly, it can irritate gums or be less efficient.

Step 1: Break off around 30-40cm of dental floss. Wrap most of it around the middle finger of one hand and the rest around the middle finger of your other hand, leaving a few centimetres between your fingers to work with.

Step 2: Gently slide the floss between your teeth using a back-and-forth motion. Never snap the floss into your gums – be patient and precise.

Step 3: Curve the floss into a C-shape around one side of the tooth. Glide it up and down along the tooth surface and just under the gumline.

Step 4: Repeat this for every tooth, using a clean section of floss each time to avoid spreading bacteria. If you're using floss picks or interdental brushes, the same principle applies – consistency and care are key.

Common questions about flossing and tooth gaps

Can flossing damage gums?

Not if you’re doing it correctly. Mild soreness or light bleeding when you first start flossing is common – it typically resolves within a week as your gum health improves.

Is it better to floss before or after brushing?
There’s evidence to suggest flossing before brushing may remove more plaque, allowing the fluoride in toothpaste to reach between the teeth more effectively.

How often should I floss?
Once a day is the gold standard. The aim is to prevent bacteria from settling between teeth long enough to cause damage.

What if I have braces or aligners?
Special floss threaders or orthodontic floss can help you clean around wires and brackets effectively. If you're undergoing treatment with aligners, it’s even more important to floss daily, as food and bacteria can get trapped under trays.

Healthy teeth starts with the right routine

Flossing doesn’t cause gaps – it reveals what’s already there and removes what shouldn’t be.

When combined with twice-daily brushing and regular dental check-ups, flossing supports long-term oral health and helps keep your teeth looking and feeling their best.

If you’re still unsure whether you’re flossing correctly or have concerns about changes in your teeth, speak to your dentist. They can advise on technique, tools, and your overall dental routine.

Looking to enhance your oral care even further? Explore our complete oral health range for professional-quality products to support your journey to a healthier mouth.