Flossing is one of the best ways to keep your teeth and gums healthy, but with so many options available, how do you know which type of floss is best? The truth is, the most effective dental floss is the one you’ll actually use consistently. Let’s take a look at the different types of floss, along with some recommended brands.
Types of Dental Floss
Not all floss is created equal. The best type depends on your teeth, gums, and personal preference. Here’s a breakdown of the most common options:
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Traditional Nylon Floss: Available in waxed and unwaxed varieties, nylon floss is a classic choice.
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Recommended Brands: Oral-B Glide Waxed Floss, Reach Waxed Dental Floss, Tom’s of Maine Antiplaque Unwaxed Floss
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PTFE (Monofilament) Floss: This smooth, shred-resistant floss glides easily between teeth, making it great for tight spaces.
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Recommended Brands: CocoFloss, Oral-B Glide Pro-Health Comfort Plus, Listerine Ultraclean
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Dental Tape: Wider and flatter than regular floss, dental tape is ideal for people with larger gaps between their teeth or sensitive gums.
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Recommended Brands: Oral-B Satin Tape, Reach Dentotape, Dr. Tung’s Smart Floss
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Super Floss: Designed for braces, bridges, and dental implants, super floss has stiff ends for threading and a spongy middle for cleaning around dental work.
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Recommended Brands: Oral-B Super Floss, GUM Easy Thread Floss, Thornton 3-in-1 Floss
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Floss Picks: While convenient, floss picks don’t always provide the same reach and flexibility as traditional floss. However, they’re great for on-the-go cleaning.
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Recommended Brands: DenTek Complete Clean Floss Picks, Plackers Micro Mint, GUM Soft-Picks
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Interdental Brushes: Small, reusable brushes that clean between teeth and around braces, implants, or wider gaps.
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Recommended Brands: TePe Interdental Brushes, GUM Proxabrush, Dr. Collins Perio Toothbrush
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Ortho-Specific Flossers: Designed for braces, these flossers have a thinner end to slide behind wires for easier cleaning.
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Recommended Brands: Platypus Ortho Flossers, GUM Orthodontic Flossers
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Water Flossers: Use a stream of water to clean between teeth. A great option for those who struggle with traditional flossing. Ideal for braces and sensitive gums.
Which Floss is Best for You?
The best floss is the one you’ll use daily. If you have:
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Tight Teeth: Use waxed floss or PTFE floss to slide between spaces easily.
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Sensitive Gums: Dental tape or soft floss is gentler.
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Braces or Dental Work: Super floss, Platypus Ortho Flossers, or a water flosser work best.
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Trouble With Flossing: Try a water flosser for a hassle-free clean.
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Larger Gaps: Interdental brushes can clean more effectively than floss.
Keep Your Smile Healthy at Cary Family Dental in Cary, IL
Keeping your smile healthy isn’t just about brushing—it’s about finding the right floss and actually using it. At Cary Family Dental, we know that little habits make a big difference. Not sure which floss is right for you? Dr. Niraj Patel and our team can help you find one that fits your needs (and won’t end up forgotten in a drawer). Ask us at your next visit—we love talking teeth!