What’s The Best Type of Floss?

Your dentist in Charlottesville understands that choosing the right type of floss to remove food particles and plaque from your teeth can be difficult. After all, there are tons of options out there, each one claiming to give you the ultimate clean. So, what exactly is the best floss? Well, it turns out that there is no one right answer. Different people have different needs, and different flosses can help in different ways. So let’s take a look at the various types of floss to help you decide which one is best for you.

Traditional Floss 

Traditional string dental floss is the most common and oldest form of flossing available. It’s been available since the 1800s and, even though there are various forms of string floss, it’s a tried and true method of cleaning in between your teeth. In fact, your dentist in Charlottesville probably uses this at your hygiene appointments. 

Benefits

Traditional string floss has several benefits, which is probably why it’s so popular. Most commonly, string floss is easy. It’s: 

• Easy on your wallet
• Easy to use
• Easy to travel with
• Easy to store

Potential Cons

Even though this type of floss has been around for centuries, there are some potential cons. Some people, such as those with braces or arthritis, may find string floss hard to use. Also, if people floss too hard with traditional floss they can damage their gum tissue and cause sensitivity or recession. 

Floss Picks 

Those who find traditional floss difficult to use might turn to floss picks. While these are better than not flossing at all, they may not provide the best clean. 

Potential Cons

Floss picks provide only a small amount of floss in the stretched, straight line. This keeps people from using a clean section of floss in between each tooth section. Additionally, string floss allows patients to curve the floss around the tooth, thoroughly cleaning it. Floss picks don’t curve as effectively, inhibiting how much of the tooth can be cleaned. 

Water Flossers

Now, there is another effective option on the market in the form of water flossers. There’s some debate in the dental world as to whether water flossers or traditional floss is the best form of floss. Your dentist in Charlottesville says the best floss is the floss that’s used. Water flossers are great at removing buildup between the teeth and may be appropriate for some patients. 

Potential Cons

While water flossers may be an excellent choice for those who find traditional string floss hard to use, there are some downsides. Water flossers are more expensive than other forms of floss. They’re also not exactly travel-friendly and can take up space on your bathroom counter. 

As you can see, there are pros and cons to each type of floss. To find the best floss for you, we recommend talking to your dentist in Charlottesville.

About The Author

Dr. Jack T. Kayton

Dr. Jack T. Kayton has served families in Charlottesville and surrounding areas since 1994 through his general and family dentistry private practice. Believing that everyone deserves quality dental care, he donates his time to worthy causes. He volunteers at the Donated Dental Service and the Charlottesville Free Clinic. His professional affiliations include the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry and the Academy of General Dentistry, among others.

Read The Full Bio