Many people ask “is string floss the best (or only) way to effectively floss?” I say – not if you leave it sitting in your drawer and never use it! Is it, technically, the most effective method of removing plaque between your teeth and below the gum line? Most dentists and hygienists think so, although some argue proxabrushes are just as effective but suffice it to say that string floss is an excellent tool. The trouble is, it's tedious, and most people don't use it.
String Floss Alternatives: Floss Picks, Proxabrushes, and Water Flossers
Flossing is an important part of maintaining your oral hygiene. It helps remove plaque, food particles, and other debris from between your teeth and both along and beneath the gum line. If you’re not flossing, you’re missing forty percent of your tooth surfaces. Not only does flossing help prevent tooth decay and gum disease, but it can also help improve your breath and overall health. Many people, though, find traditional string floss difficult to use or simply don't like the process. If you fall into this category, welcome to the club! Don't worry – there are several alternatives to traditional string floss that can still disrupt the plaque below the gum line and between the teeth.
Floss Picks Are Most People's First Choice For a String Floss Alternative
One of my favorite options is floss picks. These are small, disposable (some more eco-friendly options exist that are made of corn starch) tools with a piece of floss strung between two prongs. They are easy to use and can be a good choice for people who have trouble using traditional string floss, such as those with mobility issues or in braces. They come in both dental tape or woven varieties, the latter being thicker and better able to scrub the teeth clean but may also snap for people who have crowded teeth or teeth with tight contacts post braces.
Interdental Brushes Are A Favorite Across The Pond
Another alternative to traditional string floss is proxabrushes, also known as interdental brushes. You may be familiar with them as tools for cleaning between braces brackets, but they can also be used for cleaning between the teeth. Two of my favorite brands are GUM by Sunstar and TePe. They come in various sizes, and your hygienist can help you find the proper fit, so you know which size to use in which area. These are great for people with a phobia of flossing due to a fear of the floss getting stuck. Proxabrushes access the area between the teeth from the side rather than pressing down between the teeth like string floss or picks. These are often recommended by dentists overseas, but are less popular here in the USA.
Everyone Asks If Waterflossers Are As Good As String Floss
One of the most popular flossing alternatives is a water flosser. These devices use a stream of water to flush out food particles and plaque from between your teeth and along the gumline. Water flossers are especially helpful for people who have trouble reaching all areas of their mouth with traditional floss, or for those who have a lot of gaps between their teeth. They are also gentle on the gums, making them a good option for people with sensitive teeth or gums. The water flosser is not as effective as other methods that physically scrub the teeth (think spraying your dishes vs wiping them with a sponge), but it still disrupts a lot of the plaque and is certainly better than string floss sitting unused in the drawer. You can even avoid some of the mess and get a cordless one to use in the shower!
There Are Different String Floss Varieties
If you prefer something more traditional, you can try using waxed dental tape, which is more smooth and thinner than woven floss (great for tight contacts), or super floss, which is a thick, tufted woven floss with a stiff end (great for soaking in fluoride mouthwash to help with between-teeth cavities or to clean gaps between teeth or appliances). Both of these options can be a good choice for people who find traditional string floss too thick, thin, or ineffective.
No matter what type of floss you use, it's important to do it correctly. Check my YouTube for real-life demonstrations of proper technique with various methods: https://www.youtube.com/@TheMamaDentist By taking the time to floss correctly using a tool you will use every day, you can help keep your teeth and gums healthy and prevent a range of dental problems.
