Picking the right dental floss that suits you can be overwhelming, especially since there are so many options to choose from. While the type of floss you use is less important than flossing your teeth regularly, we like to help our patients find the best dental floss, one that they’ll enjoy using daily.
Flossing removes plaque and bacteria stuck between your teeth that cannot be removed by simply brushing your teeth. Without flossing, you’re essentially missing about one third of your tooth surface, according to the Canadian Dental Association.
Unwaxed floss is a thin nylon floss made of about 35 strands twisted together. For mouths with crowded teeth, this type of floss is easy to maneuver between tight spaces, but it’s prone to fraying and breaking.
Waxed floss is a nylon floss with a light wax coating. While it’s sturdier than unwaxed floss, the wax coating may make it harder to use in tight spots. If your teeth are evenly spaced, this floss will easily glide between them. Due to waxed floss being sturdier than unwaxed, it’s less prone to fraying and breaking.
Dental tape is broader and flatter than standard floss and is available in both waxed and unwaxed options. This floss type is ideal for people with larger spaces between their teeth. People with bridgework also find dental tape more comfortable to use as it doesn’t have the tendency to snap like floss can.
Polytetrafluorethylene floss (PTFE) uses the same material in high-tech Gore-Tex fabric. It slides between the teeth easily and is less likely to shred. But the material is currently facing controversy within the dental community because of the harmful health effects of this floss, so consult with a dentist before using it.
Silk floss is a strong, naturally created type of floss. It is very similar to traditional nylon floss, the main differences are it's a bit softer on the gums and it’s biodegradable.
Super flosses are made from a yarn-like material ideal for cleaning around braces or dental bridges. We know flossing with a mouth appliance can be difficult and this floss can help.
While this may seem like a more extravagant option, water flossers are affordable nowadays, easy to use and effective. Studies prove water flossers to be more effective than regular flossing at reducing gingivitis, gingival bleeding and removing plaque.
Available in flavours such as mint, strawberry, bubble gum—and some odd ones like bacon, waffle and ranch—this floss type can help motivate both kids and adults to floss regularly. When you opt for a minty floss, it can even promote fresh breath.
If you have questions about flossing or need help choosing the best floss for your dental health, just ask our friendly dentists at Dental Image Therapy Centres during your next appointment. We love helping patients learn proper flossing techniques and giving recommendations for flossing based on patients’ schedules and lifestyles. You can find us at St. Vital Centre and Garden City Shopping Centre. Book an appointment with us today.
Maybe it's time for your and your family's regular checkup and cleaning, you have a toothache or you need to get your treatment plan going - whatever the reason, we're here to help you get your confident smile. Whether you're a new patient or a returning friend, we can't wait to see you at your next appointment at either of our Winnipeg clinics!
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