Flossing is an essential part of family dental care. Understanding the difference between waxed and unwaxed floss is vital in this case, as each type offers distinct benefits depending on your needs. Because they believe great dental hygiene begins at home, the family dental care team at Magnolia Dental in Waynesboro, VA, provides the following information to help you select the best type of floss for you.

Waxed vs. Unwaxed 

While both types are made from nylon, the major difference between waxed and unwaxed is thickness. Wax is applied to nylon floss to help it glide smoothly between the teeth. However, the application of wax can make this variety much thicker, and because of this some people have difficulty using it in the correct manner. This typically occurs when teeth are crowded within the mouth, which can make the spaces between them minuscule.

Conversely, unwaxed floss usually glides between teeth no matter how closely spaced they are. This can be detrimental in some cases, and if you’re not careful, you can damage your gums by snapping it down in a rough manner. No matter what type you use, flossing in a dentist-approved way is important, as illustrated in this helpful guide.

How to Tell Which Is Right for You

When it comes to which type of floss to use, there really is no right or wrong answer. For most people it’s a matter of comfort; many enjoy the ease of the waxed version, so they choose those varieties. Others use unwaxed because of issues with teeth spacing.

There are also single filament flosses (nylon flosses are multifilament), which are made up of a single piece of rubber or plastic. This type tends to be stronger but is also more expensive. If you’re unsure which type is right for you, consult with a family dental care specialist who can take your needs into account when making a decision.

A healthy smile calls for frequent flossing, and Magnolia Dental will guide you on how to best take care of your teeth at home. Call (540) 943-2723 today to learn more about accessing family dental care services in Waynesboro. You can also see the complete list of treatments, from root canals to teeth whitening, by visiting their website.