Flossing is a key part of having good oral hygiene. It removes plaque and food particles between the teeth, and it can be done using traditional floss or floss sticks. However, if you don’t know about the advantages and disadvantages of each, it can be hard to choose between the two. Here’s a quick guide to each option, so you can decide what’s best for you.

Traditional Floss vs. Floss Sticks

Traditional Floss

Dental floss is available in a variety of materials including nylon, Teflon®, or silk. It comes in spools that are typically 50- to 100-yards long. Traditional floss gives people greater control over how gentle they are while flossing, so it's better for people with sensitive gums.

One disadvantage of traditional floss is that it can be time-consuming to use. It can be difficult to get in-between teeth, especially ones in the back of your mouth. Additionally, those who have dry skin or arthritis may struggle when using it, as it can be painful to wrap the floss around their fingers.

Floss Sticks

Floss sticks are typically made of a disposable plastic holder and a small section of floss. These devices are available in a variety of sizes and types, including some with long handles like a toothbrush and others that feature shorter handles and look more like toothpicks. People who don’t want to wrap the ends of the floss around their fingers may prefer this method as it won’t irritate dry skin and doesn’t require a lot of dexterity.

Additionally, it’s easy to quickly maintain good oral hygiene after meals with a floss stick because they’re more portable and you don’t have to reach your hand into your mouth to use them. Because they’re easier to use than traditional floss, they’re helpful for getting kids into the habit of flossing. Overall, both methods prove effective in removing plaque and promoting good oral health.

If you’re interested in setting up an appointment to discuss more ways to keep your teeth and gums in good shape, contact Diane M Evans DDS in Monroe County, NY. Her team is compassionate and committed to offering excellent oral hygiene care to each patient. To learn about the practice’s general, cosmetic, and children’s oral hygiene services, call (585) 321-1460. Visit the website to learn more about their talented staff.