Dental floss comes in many varieties, and there is no one right floss. You don’t have to buy a single type of floss or flossing product. Instead, it would help if you kept several kinds on hand. A small container of nylon dental floss or dental tape is helpful in a purse, pocket, or carry-on travel bag. When you’re traveling, mint-flavored floss can be an excellent substitute for mouthwash, so you don’t have to carry as much. At home, you can use your electric flosser to help you take care of your teeth.
You may have to check a few different types of dental floss before you find the right one for you. It isn’t easy to decide which type of floss to use as there are so many options available. Whatever you choose, flossing daily is essential.
TYPES OF FLOSS
Despite some toothbrushes being more effective than others, floss is generally associated with the same level of effectiveness. The best type of floss typically depends on what works best for your teeth and what you prefer. To help you decide which type of floss is best for you, here are different types of floss and their benefits.
- Unwaxed Floss: This basic floss can fit in between the most minor gaps between your teeth. While waxed floss can fit in tighter spaces, it is more likely to break or fray than regular floss. For people who have teeth that are tightly spaced, unwaxed floss is best.
- Waxed Floss: Wax-coated floss can slide more easily between teeth since it is stronger. When used between extremely close teeth, the wax coating might make it difficult to use. People with widely spaced or normal spaced teeth may prefer waxed floss.
- Fluoride-Coated Floss: Although fluoride-coated floss has not been proven to be any more effective than wax floss, many people prefer it because it slides quickly and easily between teeth. This kind of floss may best serve people with closely spaced teeth.
- Flavored Floss: There are many different types of floss available, from mint to cupcake! Flavored floss is not only more enjoyable but can also improve your breath.
- Thickness: Thick floss can get caught between teeth when you have tightly spaced teeth. On the other hand, those with widely spaced teeth will likely prefer thick floss and cover more space.
- Dental Tape: This type of floss is wider and flatter than other types. Smoothly sliding between teeth, it covers a large surface and is resistant to breaking or fraying. Those with widely spaced teeth and those who are new to flossing may be better off using dental tape.
- Super Floss: A super floss is a great option for people who have braces, dental implants, or other types of dental work. The three types of floss in super floss are stiffened-end threaders, soft spongey floss, and regular floss. Stiff-end threaders make it easy to floss between teeth and dental appliances, such as braces. The larger spongey floss can be used to clean around appliances and is effective for flossing large spaces. In addition, regular dental floss is effective for removing plaque naturally between teeth.
How to Choose the Right Dental Floss
It is not necessary to choose just one type of floss or flossing product. Flossing products may be different for each member of your family, and their needs and preferences will change over time. For example, kids can start using specialized non-electric flossers and then progress to an electric flosser or spongy floss that fits around braces.
Ask your dentist if you are not sure about which type of floss you or family members should use. The following points may help:
- Do you have gaps in your teeth? You can use dental tape or super floss to fill them in.
- Are your teeth too close together? The waxed floss may make it easier for you to slide into tight spaces.
- Are you looking for less mess? Consider using disposable flossers or premeasured floss.
- Braces or bridges? The spongy option is best for people wearing dental appliances, but any floss can be used, especially if a floss threader is available.
Most people keep standard floss handy for traveling and use electric flossers at home. So, it doesn’t matter if your spouse likes mint-flavored unwaxed floss while you want coated dental tape. Having some essential floss on hand that everyone can use is always a good idea.
You and your family must floss every day when it comes to dental floss.
What to Look for When Flossing
You should consult your dentist if you observe any of the following symptoms after flossing:
- Swollen, red, or painful gums.
- Sensitivity to heat, cold in the teeth or gums
- Bleeding gums (particularly after brushing and flossing),
- Discharge or pus around the teeth and gums,
- Teeth that don’t fit together,
- An unpleasant taste in your mouth,
- A change in the alignment of your teeth (Teeth that pull away from your gums)
Tips to Floss Effectively
Stock your desk drawer with a pack of disposable floss picks or floss that comes with premeasured strands for office-based oral hygiene. Both options can be quick and easy to use. In addition, keeping floss around the office may help you remember to floss every day.