The American Dental Association recommends cleaning between your teeth once a day, alongside brushing twice daily. Floss is one option; your dentist can help you choose another interdental cleaner when needed. The ADA explains the daily recommendation and available tools.
To make that routine easier, start by removing a practical obstacle: forgetting, an awkward tool or a time of day that never works. The suggestions below are everyday planning ideas, rather than a promise that a habit will form in a fixed number of days.
Choose a time you can repeat
Attach cleaning between your teeth to something you already do, such as getting ready for bed. If evenings are rushed, choose another dependable moment. The ADA says the order of brushing and flossing matters less than cleaning thoroughly and finding a time that fits your schedule.
Write a specific reminder: “After I put my toothbrush down, I clean between my teeth.” A clear cue is easier to follow than a vague plan to remember later.
Keep the tools easy to reach
Give your floss or other cleaner a regular place beside your toothbrush, following its storage instructions. Keep a spare pack where you normally restock bathroom supplies so running out is less likely to interrupt the routine.
If travel tends to break the habit, put the same tool on your packing list. For a powered device, include its charging cable and check whether its size fits your luggage.
Use a gentle, thorough technique
For string floss, the ADA’s MouthHealthy guide recommends using about 18 inches, guiding it gently between teeth and curving it around each tooth in a C shape. Move it against the tooth rather than snapping it into the gums. Work around your mouth in a consistent order, including the back surfaces of your last teeth.
Cleaning should not be painful. If it keeps hurting, ask your dentist to check your technique and recommend a suitable tool. Do not compensate by pushing harder.
Choose a tool you can comfortably use
If string floss is difficult to handle, ask about floss holders, interdental brushes or a water flosser. The ADA describes water flossers as an option for people who struggle with hand flossing or have certain dental work. A tool still needs to suit your teeth and be used correctly.
For shopping details such as reservoir size, charging and replacement tips, see our water-flosser buying guide. Buying a new appliance is optional; first identify what makes your current routine difficult.
Make restarting simple
If you miss a day, return to your planned routine the next day. A calendar tick can help you notice whether your chosen time works. Use it as a reminder, without turning one missed entry into a reason to abandon the plan.
After a week, review the obstacle. Did you forget, run out of supplies or find the technique awkward? Change that one thing before adding more reminders or buying another product.
Your routine checklist
- Pick one repeatable time each day.
- Keep a suitable cleaner and replacement supplies ready.
- Use a gentle technique and a consistent route around your mouth.
- Ask your dental team for help with discomfort, fit or technique.
- Keep the routine practical when you travel.
For the rest of your setup, read our toothbrush-care guide and electric-toothbrush travel checklist.
This is general oral-care information. Your dentist or hygienist can recommend a cleaning method for your teeth, dental work and individual needs.