Which dental floss is better - waxed or unwaxed? Pros and cons of types

Dental floss is an oral hygiene product that helps clean the interdental spaces. It is in these areas that the most plaque and food debris accumulate, which create a favorable environment for the development of caries. No brush can fit into these spaces, so flossing is not an alternative, but an important addition to your daily hygiene routine to keep your smile healthy and beautiful. To choose the one that's best for you, weigh the pros and cons of both types of waxed and unwaxed dental floss.

What is dental floss used for?

Floss easily copes with the difficult task of cleaning the interdental spaces. This hygiene product is especially recommended for people with crowded teeth and those undergoing treatment with braces. Timely removal of residues prevents the development of caries and gum disease. Many people believe that a toothpick is sufficient for this purpose. Dentists have a unanimous opinion on this matter: a toothpick, unlike floss, only harms the teeth.

Lanshina Natalya Viktorovna

hygienist at pediatric dentistry “Zubrenok”

The difference between dental floss and a toothpick is fundamental. Properly selected dental floss, when used correctly, removes plaque and food debris from the interdental spaces and does not injure the oral mucosa and the ligaments that hold the tooth in the bone. This is a means of dental care, prevention of caries and periodontal diseases. A toothpick is used to remove food stuck between teeth, in cavities, or under the gum. It injures the gums and ligaments of the tooth, leaving microbial plaque intact. People who use a toothpick have some kind of unresolved dental problem, a chronic disease in the oral cavity that requires emergency dental care

Scope of application

Dental floss is a useful replacement for a toothpick. If a wooden stick often gets stuck, leaves splinters and even injures the enamel, then floss is recommended by dentists as an effective and safe method of hygiene. They need to be treated before bed to prevent bacteria from having a nightly feast and ruining your smile. If during the day we have a lot of reasons and opportunities to erase plaque, then at night no one does this. Therefore, it is better to floss once a day before bed.

Floss performs several important functions:

1. Prevention of tartar formation;
2. Cleaning interdental areas and preventing caries;
3. Disinfection of interdental areas and prevention of gum inflammation (this is achieved with the help of antiseptic impregnations);

An alternative to dental floss can be an irrigator, but it is significantly more expensive.

What dental floss is best to use?

The choice depends on the characteristics and condition of your teeth. First of all, we recommend deciding on the shape of the dental floss.

• Round floss is designed for normal and wide spaces between teeth.
• Tape floss is recommended for those who have gaps between teeth - trema and diastema.
• Flat floss is suitable for people with narrow interdental spaces.

The best dental floss is the one that is perfect for you. The health of your teeth and gums depends on the correctly chosen form. A small thread diameter will make cleaning ineffective, and a wide thread can injure the gums. If in doubt, consult your dentist about which dental floss is best for you.

Lanshina Natalya Viktorovna

hygienist at pediatric dentistry “Zubrenok”

The choice of dental floss should be individual. The hygienist or dentist knows all the nuances that need to be taken into account. Waxed and flat threads penetrate more easily into hard-to-reach places in the presence of orthopedic structures and crowded teeth. Unwaxed - better clean the contact surfaces of teeth from food debris and accumulation of bacteria. This type of floss is recommended for patients who regularly take care of their teeth, have a relatively healthy mouth, and do not have many fillings or crowded teeth. Threads that swell under the influence of saliva, as well as round cross-section, are characterized by increased atraumaticity. They clean wide interdental spaces well. Flosses are impregnated with deodorizing components and medicinal additives to fight bacteria and inflammation.

Dental floss can be made from natural material - silk (it is not very durable and is quite rare) and from artificial material, such as nylon or nylon.

Advantages and disadvantages of unwaxed thread

The difference between unwaxed and waxed dental floss gives them differences in positive characteristics. The ability of floss to fluff makes it more effective in fighting plaque. Once separated into fibers, the thread covers a large area of ​​the surface being cleaned. Due to this feature, floss better removes all food particles between the teeth. In addition, the tight fit to the wall of the unit ensures effective cleaning of plaque.

Unwaxed floss is hypoallergenic. A thread made of natural fiber, not impregnated with chemical components, does not cause negative reactions.

The characteristics that are advantages of the flosses under consideration, on the other hand, are also disadvantages. Due to the fact that the thread is not slippery enough, the chance of damage to the gums during the hygiene procedure (impacts, cuts) increases. This means that you need to use unwaxed floss very carefully.

In addition, the lack of impregnation affects the shelf life of the product (no more than 3 years). Experts draw attention to the fact that it is especially important to use the thread in time after opening the package.

Waxed dental floss

Waxed dental floss has a smooth surface, making it easy to glide between teeth. We recommend it for those who are just starting to use dental floss: the risk of gum injury is significantly reduced. Waxed dental floss is durable, does not tear, and has a long shelf life - from 5 years. The only drawback: impregnated floss does not remove plaque very well - it is smooth and quickly slips in the interdental spaces.

What types of impregnations are there?

• Chlorhexidine - antibacterial, disinfecting effect of Curaprox DF 820.
• Herbal extracts help gums stay healthy.
• Potassium nitrate - caries prevention PresiDENT Sensitive.
• Menthol, mint - fresh breath Donfeel UF-623.

The impregnated mini-floss is convenient to carry with you - even in a handbag it does not take up much space (Donfeel Dental Floss mini-floss). The price of this thread is lower, since it is not very long.

Differences

Waxed floss is a smooth, wax-impregnated floss that is usually recommended for beginners. As a rule, it is soaked in an antiseptic solution and has a pleasant taste. Due to its properties, it passes between the teeth much more easily. It is more difficult for them to injure the gums, it is easier to use, so for children and those who have never purchased dental floss, it is better to start with this type.

Unwaxed thread is a tougher and more dangerous hygienic find. During the process of brushing your teeth, it is divided into several smaller threads and covers a larger area. Due to the hardness of the fibers, it removes plaque much more effectively, but it can easily damage the gums. This thread is not impregnated and is suitable even for allergy sufferers. It is worth switching to it for those people who have already mastered the correct use of floss.

Comparison table of characteristics

In order to compare the presented products, we recommend that you look at their characteristics in the table below.

How to choose the right floss

First of all, pay attention to the quality of the product. If a certified product is important to you, then purchase floss in pharmacies. High-quality products are distinguished by natural materials and are made on a silk base (waxed or unwaxed). They do not get stuck between the teeth and do not tear prematurely.

If this is a fake, then there can be no talk of any silk threads. The floss material is nylon or nylon. The main difference between the best quality brand and a fake is the price and place of sale. Low-quality floss can be sold anywhere except pharmacies.

Rules for using waxed and unwaxed floss

The rules for using waxed and unwaxed dental floss are almost the same. In order not to damage the tissue and efficiently clean the interdental spaces, you need to know the main points.

1. Brushing your teeth should only be done with clean hands.

2. For a hygienic procedure, up to 50 centimeters of floss is unwound.
3. The thread is wound around one or two fingers of one hand, then onto the fingers of the other hand. The distance of the thread remaining between the fingers is about 5 centimeters.
4. The remaining free part of the thread, stretched like a string, is used to clean the space between the teeth. Before each new surface, the floss is rewound to prevent the transfer of bacteria from the contaminated area to a new place.
5. The approximate number of slides is 7. The movement goes from the root of the tooth to its cutting surface. When using unwaxed thread, a squeaking sound is heard when the hygiene is done properly and it can be completed.

6. Care must be taken not to cut the gum and make smooth movements. People with dense teeth should pay special attention to this, since the efforts made to penetrate the floss can lead to its sudden displacement.
7. The first time you try to use dental floss, you may damage your gums. With proper general oral hygiene, this will not harm your health. With regular practice, the problem of soft tissue cuts disappears.

Attention! Simple sewing thread is not suitable for cleaning interdental spaces!

The choice of waxed or unwaxed floss depends on several factors - the ability to use this hygiene product and the structural features of the dentition. For better cleaning, unwaxed thread is suitable, and for those who are afraid or do not know how to manage floss - waxed thread. Using any type of dental floss helps to significantly reduce the risk of developing caries and tartar deposits. Read about nitrous oxide in dentistry on our website.

Types of impregnation for waxed/unwaxed thread

To increase the positive qualities of floss, aesthetic and hygienic, manufacturers impregnate them with additional products, which are divided into several types.

1. Aromatic impregnation. Such threads contain fragrances with the smell of mint, menthol or fruit. Gives freshness to breath. Often the cause of bad breath is food that is not cleaned from the interdental spaces with a toothbrush.

• Fluorine solution. This type of impregnation is not suitable for everyone, but only for those who need additional fluoridation of tooth enamel. Strengthens and nourishes hard tissues.
• Disinfectant impregnation, for example, chlorhexidine. Destroys pathogenic bacteria in the oral cavity.

Fluoride and chlorhexidine impregnations serve as a softening agent for unwaxed thread. This makes it glide easier and look more like floss soaked in wax.

Reference! The waxed look often has an aromatic impregnation.

The most common brands

Currently, many threads are produced from well-known brands. The most popular of them are flosses from the famous Oral b brand, such as Satin Floss, Super Floss, Essential Floss, Pro Expert, etc. Most often you can only hear positive reviews about them.

Oral-b Satin Floss

Oral-b Super Floss

Oral-b Pro Expert

Oral-b Essential Floss

But there are other models that are not intended for everyone, since there are certain criteria for their use depending on the individual characteristics of the person:

1. Floss from the Dental Floss series from the manufacturer Splat is best used by people whose teeth are located at a distance from each other. But the Essential Floss model is suitable for those who have a dense row of teeth.
2. There are models for those who have periodontal problems. These are flosses called Sensodyne. They have the property of swelling during the treatment procedure, which will allow for better cleaning of the spaces between the teeth. Threads from the manufacturers Colgate, Rocs, Dentorol, Jordan have proven themselves well.

SPLAT Dental Floss

Sensodyne

Colgate

Rocs

Dentorol

Jordan

The cost of such products varies between 150–450 rubles. The price will depend on the manufacturer, the quality of the product, the length of the thread and its purpose.

For example, Colgate Optic White thread is not too expensive, but its quality is in no way inferior to more expensive brands. The length is also not small - it is 25 meters, which allows you not to think about a new purchase for a long time.

Anna LosyakovaDentist-orthodontist

The thinner the floss, the faster it penetrates into the space between the teeth, cleaning them and giving fresh breath (here, unwaxed dental floss wins over its competitor).

Basic recommendations for choosing products

1. Since the tool is equipped with a thin layer of wax, it is smooth and the sliding ability is increased.
2. The product easily penetrates into tight spaces.
3. It does not delaminate during cleaning, is highly durable, and has a service life of five years or more.
4. Easy and convenient to use.
5. Minimal risk of accidental injury to the soft tissues of the oral cavity.
6. It has the ability to easily glide over the surface of the tooth, due to this it can be used even by people who have not previously had experience in flossing.
7. Suitable for cleaning teeth with many fillings, for caring for dentures, crowns, bridges.
8. Beeswax is an excellent prophylactic agent that prevents the formation of tartar and plaque. Also, this beekeeping product has a pronounced wound-healing and antiseptic effect.

There are also certain disadvantages of such a device:

• resistance to fiber separation and weak friction force negatively affect the cleaning characteristics of this type of device;
• in order to remove plaque and food debris as effectively as possible, re-use of the accessory is often required, and this may mean a risk of injury to the gums if used carelessly;
• After the hygiene procedure, wax particles may remain on the teeth, so you will need to additionally clean the oral cavity.

The listed problems are rare; the cause of these shortcomings is often the use of low-quality or expired products.

1. When performing a hygienic procedure, the thread is stratified into several fibers, which ensures a large area of ​​contact with the surface of the chewing elements.
2. Since the floss exfoliates, you can remove even small particles of food, get rid of plaque and bacteria.

The main negative characteristics of the device are:

1. Low strength of the product, service life is less than three years.
2. If the floss accidentally breaks while brushing, you will need to use tweezers to remove it.
3. It is inconvenient and difficult to clean teeth that are unevenly positioned; in this case, you need to make some effort to move; the thread can slide to the base of the tooth and damage the soft tissue of the gums.
4. The device is more difficult to use than a wax-coated device, so it is best for beginners to first learn how to use a waxed product.

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Dentists recommend using bulk flosses for people who suffer from periodontitis, gingivitis, when there is exposed root areas, or when gums are receding. Tape models do an excellent job of cleaning the surface of teeth with teeth and diastemas.

When choosing such a hygienic device, you should take into account the fact that the waxed products are coated with a natural beekeeping product. Therefore, people suffering from an allergic reaction should refrain from using the product. Waxed devices can be impregnated with additional sliding components, thanks to which the breath will be fresh and the quality of the enamel will improve.

When choosing floss, you should take into account the quality of the product, the quality of the packaging, the manufacturer, and reviews. This way you can choose a proven product. If you cannot choose the most suitable option on your own, you should consult a dentist.

With proper oral care and regular hygiene procedures, you can prevent the development of caries, gingivitis, periodontitis, freshen your breath, and improve the quality of enamel. A wide range of products for cleaning the interdental space allows each consumer to choose the most suitable product for quality oral care.

Chief author and editor-in-chief: Makarskaya S.E., 29 years of experience.

Last revision: 09/22/2019

What are their differences?

When shopping for floss, you need to know that they are not all created equal.
To achieve the best results, before purchasing them, you should decide on the type, focusing on the shape of your teeth. There are waxed and unwaxed threads. Their difference is as follows:

1. Waxed - due to their good smoothness, they can penetrate between the teeth, even if they are tightly connected to each other. The floss structure is dense. It is recommended to use waxed floss for people with dense teeth and those who have many fillings.
2. Unwaxed ones clean the interdental space better. They penetrate deeper and eliminate almost all food residues. Unwaxed floss can clean most of the dental spaces without wasting a lot of material. This is achieved by peeling the thread into several thin fibers.

The thread itself has the following characteristics:

• round - designed for wide interdental openings;
• flat - necessary for people with dense teeth, that is, when there is practically no space between the teeth.

Round thread Flat thread

If you are faced with a choice - waxed or unwaxed thread, then remember that the second does not contain wax. The waxed one is treated with it, thanks to which it glides better and penetrates even the densest dental spaces.

The thread can be impregnated or unimpregnated. Impregnated floss is treated with special substances that, in addition to cleaning, perform other additional functions, for example, giving the mouth a fresh smell, strengthening the enamel, etc.

Pros:

1. Cleans the interdental space that is inaccessible to a regular brush.
2. Floss is easy to use; you don’t need any special skills to use it.
3. Available to everyone, you can purchase it in almost any store.
4. You can use it from anywhere. You don't need paste or water.

Minuses:

1. An incorrect movement can damage the gums and create a risk of infection.
2. Frequent use threatens damage to tooth enamel. This, in turn, can lead to various consequences, including caries.

The floss itself is not dangerous, but its improper use can harm your teeth. In all other cases, flosses bring only benefits. And one more thing: make sure that you are not allergic to the material from which the waxed dental floss is made.

Improper use of thread can cause bleeding

First of all, pay attention to the quality of the product. If a certified product is important to you, then purchase floss in pharmacies. High-quality products are distinguished by natural materials and are made on a silk base (waxed or unwaxed). They do not get stuck between the teeth and do not tear prematurely.

If this is a fake, then there can be no talk of any silk threads. The floss material is nylon or nylon. The main difference between the best quality brand and a fake is the price and place of sale. Low-quality floss can be sold anywhere except pharmacies.

Currently, many threads are produced from well-known brands. The most popular of them are flosses from the famous Oral b brand, such as Satin Floss, Super Floss, Essential Floss, Pro Expert, etc. Most often you can only hear positive reviews about them.

Oral-b Satin Floss Oral-b Super Floss Oral-b Pro Expert Oral-b Essential Floss

But there are other models that are not intended for everyone, since there are certain criteria for their use depending on the individual characteristics of the person:

1. Floss from the Dental Floss series from the manufacturer Splat is best used by people whose teeth are located at a distance from each other. But the Essential Floss model is suitable for those who have a dense row of teeth.
2. There are models for those who have periodontal problems. These are flosses called Sensodyne. They have the property of swelling during the treatment procedure, which will allow for better cleaning of the spaces between the teeth. Threads from the manufacturers Colgate, Rocs, Dentorol, Jordan have proven themselves well.

We suggest you read: How to deal with bad breath: frequent bad breath
SPLAT Dental Floss Sensodyne Colgate Rocs Dentorol Jordan

The cost of such products varies between 150–450 rubles. The price will depend on the manufacturer, the quality of the product, the length of the thread and its purpose.

For example, Colgate Optic White thread is not too expensive, but its quality is in no way inferior to more expensive brands. The length is also not small - it is 25 meters, which allows you not to think about a new purchase for a long time.

The thinner the floss, the faster it penetrates into the space between the teeth, cleaning them and giving fresh breath (here, unwaxed dental floss wins over its competitor).

Dentists recommend starting to floss at the age of 10, but children need to do this under adult supervision. If you decide to use it at an older age, still consult your doctor first. When using dental floss for the first time, a number of difficulties may arise. But this is a temporary phenomenon, very soon you will get used to it and notice the first improvements in your teeth.

Here is an approximate sequence of actions:

1. Unwind 50–60 mm of thread.
2. Cut it with a knife, which is located in the upper section of the case.
3. The floss is wound around the index fingers of both hands. After this, insert it between the teeth, you should get a structure resembling the letter C.
4. Start moving the floss back and forth and up and down.
5. Be careful when the thread comes into contact with the gum so as not to damage it.

Whether or not to floss is up to everyone. But it has been scientifically proven that people who floss are less likely to develop dental problems. If you brush between your teeth after every meal, you are unlikely to suffer from oral diseases.

Depending on the material from which the thread is made, there are natural and synthetic hygiene products. Natural flosses are made on the basis of silk, due to which they effectively clean interdental crevices and do not injure the gums. Synthetic floss is made from non-natural materials - nylon, nylon, acetate - which provide a high level of strength and, if cleaned incorrectly, can damage the mucous membrane.

Classification based on the treatment of the coating of a hygiene product consists of two main types - waxed and unwaxed dental floss. Waxed floss is characterized by the presence of wax impregnation, which gives the product a holistic structure. The elastic and smooth surface increases the sliding ability of the floss, thanks to which it easily penetrates hard-to-reach areas of the oral cavity and removes bacteria.

High-quality cleansing of the oral cavity is the result of proper use of dental floss. In order for cleaning the interdental space to provide a positive result, it is necessary to follow the following sequence:

1. Wash your hands and unwind 60 cm of hygiene product.
2. Wind a piece of floss around the index fingers of both limbs. The distance between hands should not exceed 5 cm.
3. The free part of the thread must be tightened and the interdental spaces must be cleaned. A new piece of thread is used to clean each individual surface.
4. Movements during brushing should be smooth and soft to reduce the risk of damage to the mucous membrane. First of all, the floss moves in a horizontal direction, and then in a vertical direction.

Do you feel nervous before visiting the dentist? Yes No The average duration of the procedure is 5 minutes.

Dentists recommend refraining from using dental floss for patients who have been diagnosed with increased sensitivity of the mucous membrane or advanced forms of caries.

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Waxed and unwaxed dental floss are special hygienic devices for oral care. With their help, they remove plaque, food debris, and bacteria in the interdental space, since in these hard-to-reach areas it is impossible to carry out a complete cleansing with a toothbrush. Dentists recommend performing a hygiene procedure after every meal. If this is not possible, be sure to floss before bed.

Among the arsenal of such products, the main thing is to choose the most suitable one for yourself. There are many types of floss. The thread differs in material and shape. But all these products are divided by dentists into two types - unwaxed dental floss and waxed. Waxed and unwaxed dental floss, what is the difference, which dental floss is better, waxed or unwaxed? Many consumers face these questions. Let's look at the differences and features of such products.

What does waxed thread mean? These products are coated with wax, which ensures better gliding in the interdental space and reduces the risk of pain and discomfort that may occur during the hygiene procedure. A waxed instrument is suitable for people who have no gaps between their teeth and whose teeth fit tightly together.

An unwaxed tool is one that is not coated with beeswax on top, so it is much more effective at cleaning between spaces. The difference between waxed and unwaxed is that the latter is more economical to use. This product is perfect for people with loose teeth. During use, it will separate into several layers of fibers, so food removal will be more efficient.

Types of dental brushes

You need to choose brushes based on the shape and length of the bristles. There are two types of brush shapes: cylinder and cone.

• Cylinder

It has the same length of bristles, copes well with food stuck between teeth, prevents periodontitis, and is suitable for implants.

• Cone

The bristles become shorter towards the tip of the brush. Suitable for cleaning braces and dentures, as it allows you to clean areas under the clasps and in the spaces between the crowns.

What length of bristles is needed depends on the size of the spaces between the teeth. If they are narrow, brushes with short bristles (about 1 mm) are suitable. If, on the contrary, you are large or have braces, choose a brush with bristles no shorter than 3 mm.

Best lists

Below is another TOP, which includes dental floss with special characteristics and qualities. This list includes:

• Affordable price.
• High strength.
• Best quality.

Let's take a closer look at the range of products presented.

Optic White – affordable price

The presented product is impregnated with sodium pyrophosphate. The floss has a refreshing mint scent and glides freely along the soft tissue line and between the teeth. No pressure required reduces the risk of injury during the procedure. The use of this product makes teeth whiter and prevents the development of dangerous dental diseases.

Price category: from 135 to 178 rubles.

Dental floss Optic White

Biorepair Floss Nylon Un Waxed – high strength

The presented unwaxed dental floss has no wax layer. However, it contains such a universal component as calcium hydroxyapatite. The presented mineral is the main structural component of human bone tissue, including tooth enamel. It has pronounced restorative properties and is used not only as a hygienic, but also a regenerating component.

Price tag: from 430 to 680 rubles.

dental floss Biorepair Floss Nylon Un Waxed

WhiteWash Laboratories – the best quality

The presented product is designed specifically for narrow dental spaces that require a special hygienic approach. Thanks to the inclusion of liquid enamel, teeth acquire additional protection and become stronger. Xylitol, which is enriched with floss, blocks the accumulation of plaque on the surface of the teeth. The product restores enamel, freshens breath, prevents gingivitis and caries.

Price: from 470 to 660 rubles.

dental floss WhiteWash Laboratories

The best dental tapes

Compared to thread, this product is wider and has a flat surface with non-smooth edges. This product can be used not only to care for gaps in the dentition, but also to remove food debris in the spaces between the mucous membrane and orthopedic structures. These flosses are suitable for people suffering from bleeding gums. The rating describes the two best options based on reviews from doctors and buyers.

Colgate Total Fluoride Mint Flavor

This dental floss is designed specifically to freshen breath, strengthen enamel, and protect against caries. It was for these purposes that the tape was impregnated with mint and coated with fluorine. The package contains a thread 25 m long, which is enough for 1-2 months of regular use.

The product is pleasant to the touch and does not cause an allergic reaction even with sensitive gums. The tape can be cut without any problems using the sharp part at the top under the lid; it cannot be torn off by hand due to its high strength. However, it is for this reason that the product allows you to effectively eliminate even old food residues.

Advantages

• Optimal thickness;
• Neat shape;
• Does not twist during cleaning;
• Double-sided fluoride coating.

Flaws

• Swells with saliva.

It’s worth buying Colgate Total dental floss with fluoride and mint flavor because it has a good structure and excellent density; one part can treat several areas.

MontCarotte

MontCarotte floss is of good quality, but it is not cheap with a length of only 10 m. The tape is waxed, made of Teflon fibers, safe for people with sensitive enamel and gums. It has silk embossing, which guarantees gentle care of the space between the molars. When screwed onto your fingers, the product does not cut the skin and does not cause discomfort. The absence of delamination increases cleaning efficiency and saves on costs. Floss prevents food from accumulating in the crevices between teeth and thus protects against dental diseases.

Advantages

• Shelf life – unlimited;
• Sold in several colors;
• Italian production;
• Scrolls well in the oral cavity;
• Doesn't slip out of fingers when wet.

Flaws

• High price;
• It can get stuck in narrow crevices.