Updated by Dr. Radwa Saad, DMD, BDS, MSc, MICOI
Last Updated: 08/30/2026
Choosing between the many types of dental floss can be confusing. Waxed or unwaxed? Dental tape or traditional floss? What about water flossers, floss picks, interdental brushes, implants, bridges, or braces?
The best choice depends on your teeth, gums, restorations, dexterity, and the size of the spaces between your teeth.
Daily interdental cleaning matters because toothbrush bristles cannot effectively reach all of the surfaces between adjacent teeth. Floss and other interdental cleaners help remove plaque and food debris from these areas. The American Dental Association recommends cleaning between your teeth once a day with floss or another interdental cleaner.
At Dent Blanche Dental, we recommend choosing the interdental cleaning method that fits your individual oral health needs—and, importantly, one that you can use correctly and consistently.
A beautiful smile starts with great oral hygiene, and flossing plays a vital role in maintaining both your dental and overall health. While brushing removes plaque from the surface of your teeth, it’s flossing that targets the bacteria hiding in between. Without flossing, nearly 40% of your tooth surface goes uncleaned.
At Dent Blanche Dental, we help patients choose the right floss for their lifestyle, smile goals, and comfort preferences. This guide walks you through the 11 most effective types of dental floss—from traditional thread to modern water and air flossers.
Let’s explore your options about the best oral hygiene products so you can find the ideal tool to protect your teeth and gums long-term.
11 Types of Dental Floss
What are the 11 Types of Dental Floss?
Types of Dental Floss: Quick Answer
Which type of best floss?
There isn’t one type that is best for everyone.
- Tight teeth: thin waxed floss or smooth monofilament floss.
- Sensitive gums: soft dental tape may feel more comfortable.
- Braces: super floss, floss threaders, or an appropriate interdental cleaner.
- Dental bridges: super floss or a floss threader can help clean underneath the pontic.
- Dental implants: use a cleaning method recommended for your specific implant restoration.
- Larger spaces: interdental brushes may work particularly well.
- Limited hand dexterity: floss picks, holders, interdental brushes, or water flossers may be easier.
- Children: floss picks may improve compliance when string floss is difficult.
The ADA emphasizes matching the interdental cleaning technique to the individual. For example, floss may suit tight contacts, while interdental brushes can be useful for more open spaces and certain periodontal situations.
Types of Dental Floss at a Glance
| Type | May Be Useful For |
|---|---|
| Traditional string floss | Everyday cleaning |
| Waxed floss | Tight contacts and easier gliding |
| Unwaxed floss | People who prefer uncoated floss |
| Dental tape | Comfort and broader tooth contact |
| Super floss | Bridges, braces and certain restorations |
| Water flosser | Braces, dexterity limitations and supplemental cleaning |
| Interdental brush | Larger spaces and certain periodontal needs |
| Dental pick | Convenience and larger spaces |
| Floss pick | Travel and limited dexterity |
| Wooden interdental cleaner | Selected open spaces |
| Powered/air interdental cleaner | Alternative powered cleaning |
Types of Dental Floss
1. Thread Dental Floss
#Thread dental floss
The gold standard of flossing, thread floss is the most common and effective type of dental floss. Made of thin nylon or Teflon, it slides between teeth and under the gumline to remove food debris and plaque.
Pros:
- – Most effective at removing plaque
- – Reduces cavity and gum disease risk
- – Widely available and affordable
Cons:
- – Difficult to use with braces or tight teeth
- – Requires good dexterity
- – Can shred or catch on dental work
Ideal for: Patients without braces or bridges who want a classic, effective clean.
2. Waxed Dental Floss
Waxed floss is coated with a thin layer of wax, making it slightly thicker and easier to glide between tight spaces.
Pros:
- – Slides easily between teeth
- – Durable and less likely to fray
- – Available in various flavors (mint, cinnamon, etc.)
Cons:
- – May leave waxy residue
- – Can feel thicker in tight spaces
- – Not ideal for those with sensitivity to additives
- – ideal for: People with tight teeth who want smooth, strong floss.
3. Unwaxed Dental Floss
Unwaxed floss is thinner and lacks the wax coating, offering a grippier feel for precision cleaning.
Pros:
- – No residue left behind
- – Thinner for wider spaces
- – More eco-friendly options
Cons:
- – Prone to fraying
- – More difficult to slide between tight teeth
- – Less flavor variety
- – Ideal for: Individuals with wider gaps or those who prefer a more natural option.
4. Dental Tape (Tape Floss)
#dental floss known as dental tape
Dental tape is wider and flatter than traditional floss, offering more surface area to clean larger gaps between teeth.
Pros:
- – Comfortable and gentle on gums
- – Ideal for people with spacing or bridgework
- – Easy to grip and control
Cons:
– Can feel bulky in tight teeth- Not as effective in small gaps- Limited flavor selection- Ideal for: Patients with larger gaps, bridges, or sensitive gums.
5. Super Dental Floss
Super floss is designed for cleaning around braces, implants, and dental bridges. It features a stiff end for threading, a spongy section for cleaning around appliances, and a regular floss section.
Pros:
– Perfect for braces and bridgework- Easy threading around dental work- Pre-cut strands for convenience
Cons:
– Bulky for tightly spaced teeth- Takes time to get used to- Limited availability in some stores- Ideal for: Patients with orthodontic appliances, implants, or dental bridges.
6. Water Flossers (Oral Irrigators)
Water flossers use a gentle, pressurized stream of water to remove debris and bacteria. They’re especially helpful for those with limited dexterity or sensitive gums.
Pros:
- – Great for sensitive gums and braces
- – Easy to use, even for arthritis patients
- – Reaches below the gumline
Cons:
- – Requires electricity and water
- – Less effective on heavy plaque buildup
- – Can be expensive upfront
- – Ideal for: People with sensitivity, mobility issues, or orthodontic devices.
7. Powered Interdental Brushes
#Powered interdental floss: type of dental floss
These electric floss alternatives use a rotating brush or water stream to clean between teeth. They resemble a powered toothbrush with interchangeable brush heads.
Pros:
- – Effective plaque removal between teeth
- – Great for implants and dentures
- – User-friendly with ergonomic handles
Cons:
- – Shorter lifespan of brush heads
- – More costly than manual floss
- – Not as portable
- – Ideal for: Patients with dexterity challenges or larger gaps.
8. Dental Picks (Interdental Picks)
Dental picks are reusable or disposable tools that physically dislodge food particles and plaque. They’re available in plastic or wooden varieties.
Pros:
- – Easy to use and portable
- – Stimulates gums and improves circulation
- – Great for orthodontic patients
Cons:
- – Can irritate gums if misused
- – Not ideal for tight gaps
- – Risk of damage if used with too much pressure
- – Ideal for: Quick clean-ups, braces wearers, or as a supplement to traditional flossing.
9. Floss Picks & Pre-threaded Flossers
These tools combine floss with a plastic handle, making it easier to clean back teeth or floss on the go.
Pros-
- – Convenient and portable
- – No need to wrap floss around fingers
- – Easy for children or those with limited grip
Cons:
- – Reuses the same floss section
- – May not reach deep under gums
- – Can spread bacteria if not used properly
- – Ideal for: Busy individuals, children, and those new to flossing.
10. Wooden Plaque Removers (Toothpicks)
Often made of birch or bamboo, these slim sticks are designed to remove food particles from between teeth.
Pros:
- – Natural and biodegradable
- – Gentle for wide gaps
- – Easy to carry and use
Cons:
- – Limited effectiveness vs. plaque
- – Can cause gum damage if misused
- – Not suitable for tight contacts
- – Ideal for: Post-meal clean-ups or those who want eco-conscious alternatives.
11. Air Flossers
Air flossers are handheld electric devices that use quick bursts of air and micro-droplets of water or mouthwash to clean between teeth.
Pros:
- – Quick and easy to use
- – Ideal for sensitive gums
- – Portable and cordless designs available
Cons:
- – Less effective than water flossers
- – May not fully remove plaque
- – Can be costly
- – Ideal for: Those looking for a fast, gentle alternative to manual flossing.
Which Type of Dental Floss Is Best for You?
The truth is, the best dental floss is the one you’ll use consistently. At Dent Blanche Dental, we tailor our recommendations to your oral health needs, lifestyle, and any existing dental work.
If you’re unsure which floss type is right for you, our expert team can help you create a custom flossing plan that works best for your:
- – Gum sensitivity
- – Dental restorations (implants, crowns, or bridges)
- – Orthodontic appliances
- – Manual dexterity
Flossing Tips for Maximum Effectiveness
- Floss at least once a day—ideally before brushing
- Use 18–24 inches of thread floss and wind it around your fingers
- Gently glide the floss between each tooth without snapping
- Curve the floss around the tooth in a “C” shape and slide under the gumline
- Don’t forget back molars and hard-to-reach spots
The Bottom Line: Flossing Matters
No matter which type of floss you prefer, the important thing is consistency. Pairing the right floss with your brushing routine and regular dental checkups is the key to maintaining long-term oral health.
At Dent Blanche Dental, we go beyond routine cleanings. Our mission is to provide elevated, personalized dental care in a luxurious, nature-infused environment in Princeton, NJ. We’ll help you perfect every part of your oral hygiene routine—including the floss you use and how to brush your teeth properly.
Need Help Finding the Best Floss?
Book a smile consultation at Dent Blanche Dental to get a personalized oral care plan from Dr. Radwa Saad and our expert team. Whether you prefer classic thread floss or are curious about the latest air flossers, we’re here to guide you to a healthier, more radiant smile.
Types of Dental Floss for Bridges, Implants and Crowns
Dental restorations can change the way you need to floss.
Dental bridges
A conventional bridge creates an area beneath the artificial replacement tooth that ordinary floss cannot simply pass through from the biting surface.
You may need:
- Super floss.
- A floss threader.
- An interdental brush.
- Another dentist-recommended interdental cleaner.
Learn more about dental bridges and why keeping the supporting teeth clean is important.
Dental implants
Implants also require excellent plaque control.
However, implant restorations vary considerably.
A single implant crown, implant bridge and full-arch restoration may require different techniques.
Patients with dental implants should ask their dental team which interdental cleaner and technique are appropriate around their particular restoration.
Crowns
You can normally floss around a properly fitted crown.
Move the floss gently around the crown margins just as you would around a natural tooth.
If floss repeatedly shreds, catches or cannot pass through a contact, mention it during your next dental examination.
Best Dental Flossers for Gum Disease
This is another section your current article is missing.
Patients with periodontal disease may have larger spaces between their teeth because of gum and bone changes.
Traditional string floss isn’t automatically the best choice for every one of these spaces.
Interdental brushes may be appropriate for some patients with periodontitis or open interdental spaces.
If your gums:
- Bleed frequently.
- Look swollen.
- Are receding.
- Feel tender.
- Have persistent bad breath.
- Have developed larger spaces.
schedule a periodontal evaluation rather than simply switching floss.
Learn more about how to take care of your gums.
Dr. Radwa Saad’s Clinical Tip About Types of Dental Floss
The best floss isn’t necessarily the most expensive or sophisticated product. It is the interdental cleaner that fits your mouth, that you can use safely, and that you will use consistently.
Patients often tell me, “I can’t floss.”
Usually, what they mean is that traditional string floss doesn’t work well for them.
That distinction matters.
Someone with very tight contacts may need a completely different technique from someone with periodontal bone loss, a dental bridge, implants, braces or limited hand dexterity.
Rather than abandoning interdental cleaning, ask your dentist or hygienist to show you which method works for your mouth.
Types of Dental Floss: Frequently Asked Questions
What are the different types of dental floss?
Common options include:
- String floss.
- Waxed floss.
- Unwaxed floss.
- Dental tape.
- Super floss.
- Floss picks.
- Interdental brushes.
- Water flossers.
- Dental picks.
- Wooden interdental cleaners.
- Powered interdental cleaners.
Which type of dental floss is best?
- There is no universal winner.
- Tight contacts often work well with floss.
- Larger spaces may suit interdental brushes.
- Bridges may require super floss or threaders.
- Dexterity limitations may make handled or powered devices easier.
Is waxed or unwaxed floss better?
- Neither has a proven overall effectiveness advantage.
- Waxed floss may glide more comfortably for some people.
- Choose the version you can use correctly every day.
Should I floss every day?
- Yes.
- The ADA recommends cleaning between your teeth once daily.
- You can use floss or another appropriate interdental cleaner.
Should I floss before or after brushing?
- Either sequence can work.
- Thorough cleaning matters most.
- Choose the routine you can maintain consistently.
Is a water flosser better than dental floss?
- It depends on the patient.
- Water flossers can be helpful when conventional floss is difficult.
- Tooth spacing, gum health, restorations and dexterity should guide the choice.
What type of floss is best for dental bridges?
- Super floss.
- Floss threaders.
- Appropriate interdental brushes.
- Your dentist may recommend another device depending on the bridge design.
What type of floss is best for implants?
- There isn’t one answer for every implant.
- Cleaning depends on the restoration design.
- Ask your dental team to demonstrate the correct technique.
Regular dental cleanings and dental check-ups also allow your dental team to identify areas you may be consistently missing.
You can also explore our Dental Hygiene Products guide for more information about maintaining your teeth and gums at home. Learn how to brush your teeth properly.
Schedule Your Dental Cleaning and Oral Hygiene Evaluation
If your gums bleed, floss constantly shreds, food repeatedly gets trapped between your teeth, or you’re unsure how to clean around implants, crowns, bridges or orthodontic appliances, schedule an evaluation at Dent Blanche Dental.
A personalized recommendation can be much more useful than simply buying another package of floss.
Call Dent Blanche Dental: 609-890-1888
Dent Blanche Dental
3640 Lawrenceville Rd, Princeton, NJ
Call (609) 890-1888
Schedule an appointment at Dent Blanche Dental
