Flossing is a good habit. General brushing only removes about 70% of the plaque, and there is still plaque on the adjacent surfaces of the teeth, so flossing is generally necessary to remove it. Flossing is very effective in removing plaque from the adjacent surfaces of teeth, especially if the gums are healthy and normal and the interdental papillae are not significantly receding, in which case flossing is less stimulating to the papillae. Do not use toothpicks, as using toothpicks can cause the papillae to recede. Flossing is the best way for most people to clean the adjacent surfaces of the teeth. It is recommended to use floss to clean the adjacent surfaces of the teeth, and it can be used in conjunction with brushing to better maintain oral hygiene.