Any dentist will tell you that flossing daily for two to three minutes is essential to any good teeth cleaning routine. However, you might be surprised to learn that dental tape is a great alternative to the traditional product. In the article below, examine the characteristics of both options to help determine which is right for you.

Dental Floss

Dental floss consists of a single strand of material that gets threaded through interdental spaces, which are the areas between teeth. It has existed since the 19th century and was traditionally made from silk. In modern times, however, it consists of nylon or Teflon®. Floss can be waxed or unwaxed and sometimes contains fluoride or stain-removing substances for those more prone to tooth discoloration or decay.

Because it’s thin, floss is the best teeth cleaning option for those whose teeth are close together. However, getting a strand of floss completely around an individual tooth and below the gumline to prevent cavities and gum disease can be challenging.

Dental Tape

Dental tape is noticeably thicker and wider than floss. It contains these properties because it’s intended for use by people with teeth spaced far apart. Therefore, these individuals can fit larger pieces of material between them. The greater surface area makes it more efficient at removing food particles and plaque. It is also easier to wrap around the fingers and grip.

However, dental tape is generally only useful for kids whose teeth are far apart or those who regularly wear bridgework. If you have a diastema—a noticeable gap between the upper two front teeth—or other wide spaces, a water flosser or interdental toothbrush may be more effective than either floss or tape.

Whether you’re looking for expert dental hygiene advice or a routine teeth cleaning or dental exam, you can turn to Gregory E. Utecht, DDS. Serving Lincoln, NE, and the surrounding areas, this trusted dentist offers a full range of general, family, and cosmetic dentistry services to patients of all ages. Call (402) 477-3456 to book an appointment, and visit the website to learn more about their services.