Different Types For Different Purposes
There are many types of dental floss and there is no one “right” floss for everyone. If you must have the right one, it may entail some hits and misses, just like any product. Nothing wrong with having several types, including an electric flosser. With so many available in the market, it’s more important to floss everyday. Find out more.
So what is the best floss for removing plaque?
According to a recent study involving different types of flossing products (unwaxed, woven, shred-resistant, and an electric one), there was no difference in their efficiency in removing dental plaque. Versus using toothbrush alone, all the floss products were effective, the electric floss, though, showed the highest average plaque reduction after one use. Another study compared the safety feature plus the plaque-removing capability of the electric flosser versus the regular floss. It turned out that both were equally effective at removing plaque and both are safe.
An electric flosser can be fun to use by older children and adults; the elderly and those with dexterity issues with fingers can find the electric floss useful. Truth is, different family members have their own preferences which can change. Little children can use non-electric, specialized flossers and then gradually move on to electric flossers. Those with orthodontic braces or other dental appliances can learn to use the spongy floss or the electric flosser.
Some helpful tips can make choosing the right floss easier.
- Do you have wider than normal gaps between your teeth? You can use dental tape. It’s flatter and a bit thicker, perfect for those gaps. However, it may be difficult to pass them through crowded teeth. It’s available in both unwaxed and wax versions.
- Do you have tighter spaces in between your teeth? A waxed floss can easily glide into those tight spaces. Its waxed layer makes the strand stronger and resistant to shredding. Being waxed, it is thicker than unwaxed floss and may be harder to grip with your fingers.
- Do you wear braces or a bridge? You can use super floss, which has three main components: regular floss, spongy floss, and a stiff end threader. The last component can help easily maneuver the strand under bridges and other dental fixtures.
- Are you for less-mess flossing? Disposable flosses are for you, or a floss in pre-measured strands.
- Do you do a lot of traveling or are always in quite a hurry? Prefer the electric flosser.
Remember that whatever floss you prefer, under your dentist’s guidance, look for the American Dental Association (ADA) seal of approval. Floss daily for optimal oral health.
Learning More About Dental Floss
Visit your friendly Bellevue dentists at Overlake Dental for more helpful tips about flossing and flossing products. We adhere to daily flossing as part of proper oral hygiene.
