Flossing is an important part of any dental hygiene routine. It turns out, however, that the type of floss you use isn’t clear cut, it really depends on your preferences & lifestyle.
The main two types of floss are wax coated & unwaxed. Each can have its benefits & general supporters, so it’s important to examine the pros & cons as they relate to you. The most important thing is that you floss regularly, so be sure to pick one you can pick up every day.
Unwaxed Unpacked
Many dentists will recommend an unwaxed floss to patients with certain treatment plans as this coarser floss is thought to remove plaque more efficiently. While this is logical to think, studies have shown that neither type of floss is better at a significant level.
Waxed floss can sometimes leave a residue on your teeth that can irritate your gums. Unwaxed floss is less likely to leave a residue, so it can be better for your teeth & gums.
Unwaxed floss is also generally thinner, which can make it easier to use between teeth that have tight spaces. However, due to its thinness & lack of coating, unwaxed floss is more likely to shred or fray, especially in tight spaces.
Finally, while it’s not a large difference, often unwaxed floss is slightly cheaper. So if you really try to save every penny you can, getting unwaxed floss can do the trick. Mainly, it’s good to know that the cheaper option isn’t necessarily the worse option when it comes to floss.
Wax On
Waxed floss is often considered easier to glide between teeth, due to the wax coating acting as a lubricant. This can be especially useful if you have braces, which may catch the rougher unwaxed floss.
It can be less prone to shredding or fraying compared to unwaxed floss. In addition, this smooth feel can be preferable to hold for some users.
Third Options
If you find traditional floss just isn’t working for you, consider alternatives like interdental brushes, water flossers or dental picks. These can also be great supplements even if you stick with flossing, especially for those who suffer from gum disease, which sadly is many of us.
If you have any concerns or questions about flossing, consult with your dentist or dental hygienist for personalized recommendations.
Sources:
https://www.colgate.com/en-us/oral-health/brushing-and-flossing/waxed-or-unwaxed-dental-floss
https://deepblue.lib.umich.edu/bitstream/handle/2027.42/141099/jper0393.pdf?sequence=1
https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/adult-health/expert-answers/dental-floss/faq-20058112