Types of Dental Floss: Find the Best for You

Different types of dental floss cater to specific needs, making a difference to your cleaning regime. But which should you pick? Not to worry; we're here to help.

In this article, we'll look at the most popular flossing options: string floss, floss picks, and water flossers. We'll cover how each type works, when to use them, and the benefits they offer for maintaining healthy teeth and gums.

Whether you're wondering, when was dental floss invented or is dental floss FSA eligible, we have answers for you!

Let's explore which floss option fits your lifestyle!

What this article covers:

Types of Dental Floss
Which Type to Use and When to Use It?

Types of Dental Floss

Among the uses for dental floss, there are many types of dental floss available. Choosing the right type can make a big difference in achieving optimal oral hygiene.

String Floss

String floss is the most common type of floss, typically made from either nylon or PTFE material. Our findings show that it is a thin strand designed to fit between teeth and remove food particles and plaque.

This type of floss comes in various thicknesses and can be used to clean both wider and tighter spaces between teeth. Its flexibility allows users to manipulate it around the contours of each tooth and beneath the gumline.

For those seeking a more advanced option, SNOW's Activated Charcoal Whitening Floss is an excellent choice. Infused with activated charcoal and bamboo fibers, this floss expands to ensure deep plaque removal from between your teeth.

Waxed Floss

Waxed floss is similar to string floss but includes a thin coating of wax. This layer of wax helps the floss slide more smoothly between teeth, which can be useful in navigating tighter spaces.

The wax also provides durability, helping prevent fraying during flossing. It's a great choice for those with closely spaced teeth who prefer a smooth application.

Unwaxed Floss

Unwaxed floss does not have a coating, making it thinner than waxed floss. Made from materials like nylon, it's often chosen for its minimalistic composition.

Though it lacks a coating, it remains a widely used option for routine oral care, providing a no-frills, simple approach to flossing.

Dental Tape

Dental tape is a wider and flatter type of dental floss, designed to cover a larger surface area. This makes it ideal for individuals with wider gaps between their teeth or for those who find traditional floss too thin to handle comfortably.

Because of its width, dental tape is also a good option for those with dental work such as bridges or implants.

Super Floss

Super floss is a specialized type of dental floss designed for people with braces, bridges, or wide gaps between their teeth. It typically consists of three segments: a stiffened end for threading under appliances, a spongy section for cleaning around braces or bridges, and a regular floss section for removing plaque.

The stiffened end makes it easier to navigate through braces or dental work, while the spongy section offers added flexibility in cleaning between wide spaces.

PTFE Floss

PTFE floss is made from polytetrafluoroethylene, a synthetic polymer known for its strength and smooth texture. It is resistant to shredding and breaking, making it a durable option.

Due to its non-stick nature, PTFE floss is often chosen by individuals with sensitive gums or closely spaced teeth, as it minimizes friction while effectively removing plaque and debris. Its smooth glide helps reduce discomfort during flossing.

Floss Picks

Based on our observations, floss picks offer a convenient and portable solution for flossing. The handle makes it easier to access hard-to-reach areas in the mouth, especially for those who find string floss challenging to maneuver.

For an advanced option, SNOW's Charcoal Whitening Floss Picks combine effective flossing with whitening benefits. These picks contain activated charcoal to remove surface stains while cleaning between teeth and along the gumline.

Eco-Friendly Floss

Eco-friendly floss is made from biodegradable materials like silk or bamboo, offering a sustainable option. This type of floss is designed to reduce environmental impact while still providing effective plaque and debris removal.

Eco-friendly flosses are typically packaged in recyclable or reusable containers, aligning with sustainable lifestyles.

Water Flossers

Water flossers use pressurized water to clean between teeth and along the gumline. Our research indicates that they are especially popular among people with braces, bridges, or dental implants, as the water stream can easily navigate around these dental structures.

The SNOW Water Flosser is a fantastic choice. With three pressure modes (Pulse, Normal, and Soft) and a large 8 oz water tank, it allows for extended cleaning sessions. A single charge delivers up to 70 uses, and the BPA-free, antibacterial nozzle adds extra hygiene benefits.

Which Type to Use and When to Use It?

When choosing between floss types, it's important to consider your specific oral care needs. Floss picks are convenient for on-the-go use and allow easy access to hard-to-reach areas, especially in the back of the mouth.

Water flossers, like ours, are ideal for individuals with dental work, whereas string floss offers versatility and control.

When should dental floss be used in relationship to brushing teeth? The answer is simple: every day. You should brush and then floss once per day to keep bacteria and plaque at bay.

Conclusion

Selecting the right flossing tool is essential. Whether you choose the simplicity of string floss, the ease of floss picks, or the advanced cleaning power of water flossers, each contributes to healthy teeth and gums.

We've discussed the strengths of each: string floss for control, floss picks for convenience, and water flossers for a gentle yet thorough clean.

For the best results, incorporate SNOW teeth whitening's innovative oral care products into your routine. Try the SNOW Water Flosser for a thorough clean or Teeth Whitening Floss Picks for convenient, whitening benefits.

Did our blog meet your needs? You might also find our other guides helpful: