Along with brushing your teeth, the American Dental Association advocates flossing each evening as part of your daily oral hygiene routine. This is the most effective method for removing plaque and food material from between your teeth and along the gumline.

There are some minor variations in dental floss that might be a factor, depending on your personal preference and the unique details of your mouth. Most dental floss brands are made from either nylon or an extruded monofilament. It is also available in a wide array of added flavors and coating.

Unwaxed dental floss is essentially a plain strand of monofilament or braided nylon that has not been treated with a waxy coating. While some manufactures will apply added flavors to unwaxed nylon floss, most choose to sell it plain.

Waxed dental floss has a special waxy coating applied to the strand. The waxy coating also helps the strand slip into tight places, making it preferable for people with tight-fitting teeth or braces. The wax can also be treated with flavor additives like mint or cinnamon.

On a clinical level, both variations of floss are equally effective at removing residual food particles and plaque from between teeth and along the gumline. It is ultimately a matter of personal preference.

If you live in the Boise, Idaho, area and you have questions about the dental floss used in your household, you can always call 208-350-6795 to speak to a member of Dr. Trista Pottenger’s staff at High Desert Dental.