Q
I’ve always noticed that there’s waxed and un-waxed floss. What’s the difference? And which is better?
A
Waxed floss has a thin coating that helps it slide between tightly spaced teeth more easily. Unwaxed floss has no coating, so it’s thinner and usually unflavored. Neither type is universally better — the right choice depends on your comfort and personal preference.
Which Is More Effective?
The most effective floss is the one you will actually use regularly.
Choose a floss you find comfortable and even a flavor you like so flossing becomes a habit. While some manufacturers claim waxed floss removes more plaque, clinical evidence indicates that most types of floss are similarly effective when used correctly.
If your goal is better plaque removal, focus on improving your flossing technique rather than only on the floss type.
Pick the floss that makes flossing easiest and most comfortable for you.
Waxed Floss Might Be for You If:
- You prefer how it feels in your mouth.
- A flavored option helps motivate you to floss.
- Your teeth are closely spaced and you need something that slides in easily.
- Unwaxed floss tends to shred or break between your teeth.
- You’re just learning to floss and want something that feels easier to use.
Unwaxed Floss Might Be for You If:
- You want a thinner, more maneuverable floss.
- You prefer to avoid coatings or added chemicals.
- Your teeth are crowded and need a slim profile to reach between contacts.
- You’re pregnant or sensitive and prefer an unflavored option that won’t trigger nausea.
- You dislike lingering flavors that affect taste after flossing.
Expanding Floss
There’s also floss designed with fibers that expand slightly when placed between teeth. These can be effective at grabbing more plaque and biofilm from the tooth surface.
Expanding, woven floss can stretch a bit in the contact area and remove more debris while maintaining comfortable glide. Some are coated with natural waxes such as beeswax instead of synthetic coatings.
Chemicals in Some Waxed Flosses
Many waxed flosses use synthetic coatings to improve glide. Some popular brands have used polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), a polymer related to what’s used on nonstick cookware. While these coatings make floss very smooth and resistant to shredding, some people prefer to limit exposure to industrial chemicals and choose uncoated or naturally coated alternatives.
If you don’t need the extra glide provided by a PTFE-coated floss, consider an unwaxed or naturally coated product to avoid those ingredients.
Recommendations
- If you prefer to avoid synthetic coatings, choose unwaxed floss or a naturally coated expanding floss.
- If a waxed floss helps you floss consistently, use the type that keeps you in the habit.
- Ultimately, the best floss is the one you use regularly and with proper technique.
Mark Burhenne DDS
Learn More:How to Floss the Right Way