I Want to Start... Flossing!

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1. Waxed Or Unwaxed?

Should one opt for waxed or non-waxed floss? Usually made of string, floss can come with a Teflon or wax coating to reduce abrasion to the gums. “This suits people with small spaces between their teeth, but waxed floss‘s lack of friction may occasionally let plaque escape,“ says Dr Catherine Groenlund from Sydney University’s faculty of dentistry.

Advantages Waxed floss suits small interdental spaces; unwaxed floss may remove more plaque.

Disadvantages Unwaxed floss can shred; waxed floss can leave an aftertaste.

2. Flavoured Floss

If you need a nudge to start your flossing habit, flavoured options may be the answer. Available in string or ribbon form, flavours add a pleasant perk to flossing and are often infused with tooth-strengthening fluoride or antibacterial agents. But do they work? “Floss isn’t usually in contact with the tooth long enough for these ingredients to make any significant difference,“ says Dr Tony Burges, president of the NSW branch of the Australian Dental Association.

Advantages Encourages flossing compliance.

Disadvantages Floss tends to be thicker, flavours may cause allergic reactions.

3. Dental Tape

Dental tape is much thicker than normal string floss, working to provide a more complete clean with its large surface area. The rectangular shape slides easily between teeth, causing less trauma to the gums. Christina Pedreschi, a dental therapist and member of the Australian Dental and Oral Health Therapists’ Association, recommends tape coated in Teflon for a smoother floss that’s also less prone to shredding.

Advantages More effective clean; durable; gentle on gums.

Disadvantages Thick; requires some adjusting to.