It’s not uncommon to stick to a strict brushing regime, but leave out flossing altogether. Many people are unaware of the health risks of not flossing and believe that a toothbrush can perform the same thorough job.The truth is that a toothbrush merely cleans the tops and outer surfaces of the teeth and gums, whereas string flossers clean the tight spaces in between. Water flossers do the same thing but they’re more expensive.