The Best Flosses
No, flossing your teeth isn't the most fun activity in the world. But unless you want to deal with poor hygiene and even poorer-looking teeth, flossing is crucial. In fact, it's one of the most important parts of your at-home health regimen. Why? Because brushing alone won't get rid of the bacteria that stubbornly clings to teeth. This means that if you don't floss, then this will probably (definitely) lead to plaque buildup, which will then lead to cavities and gum disease. So, when it comes to picking out which type of floss is best for you, you should pick a product that you'll be most inclined to use every day. Choose one of the flosses on this list and you'll be on your way to pristine, sparkling, healthy teeth in no time.
Oral-B Super Floss Pre-Cut Strands
Healthy Teeth to Smile About
Although the aptly-named Super Floss from Oral-B was specifically designed to clean around braces and other appliances, it’s also just plain awesome for your teeth even if you don’t have braces. This floss has three components that set it apart from other types of floss: spongy floss, regular floss, and a stiffened-end dental floss threader, all of which work together to really slide into every single crevice. The result? Squeaky clean, minty fresh-feeling teeth, healthy gums, and a mouth that’s free of bacteria and plaque, which means no more cavities and no more gingivitis for you.
Pros:
- Equally great for those who have braces or wide gaps and those who don’t.
- Has three unique components that help to thoroughly clean teeth: spongy floss, regular floss, a stiffened-end dental floss threader.
- Helps to remove plaque from under the gumline.
- Gives you pre-measured strands, so you don’t have to measure yourself.
Cons:
- The floss shreds just a tad too easily.
Cocofloss Luxury Dental Floss
Textured, soft, and all-natural, Cocofloss is the luxury dental floss that people can’t stop talking about. It’s made with 500-plus fibers that are coated in coconut oil (which is naturally cleansing), so not only is it effective at gently scrubbing away grime and plaque, but it smells and feels amazing. And that’s the big difference between Cocofloss and most other types of floss — it’s actually enjoyable to use. It’s also paraben-free, cruelty-free, and vegan, so you can rest easy knowing that there are no toxic ingredients in your floss.
Pros:
- Made with over 500 interwoven filaments that are super-effective at catching plaque and debris.
- Filaments are coated in naturally cleansing oil, which smells pleasant and feels good going over your teeth and gums.
- Vegan, cruelty-free, and paraben-free; non-toxic.
- Outer boxes are made from 100 percent recycled paper.
Cons:
- It’s pricey.
Listerine Ultraclean Dental Floss
Listerine Ultraclean Dental Floss isn’t just great at effectively removing plaque; it’s also an excellent value buy considering that you get six packs of floss that are each 30 yards long. Ultraclean Floss uses shred-resistant technology to remove food and plaque from every nook and cranny of your mouth, resulting in ultra-healthy teeth and gums. And, it’s mint-flavored, so teeth feel extra-fresh. You’re bound to get a gold star from your dentist when you use this stuff regularly.
Pros:
- Awesome value; you get six packs of floss that are each 30 yards long.
- Shred-resistant technology that stretches and glides easily.
- Mint flavor is refreshing and not too overpowering.
Cons:
- Could stand to be a little thicker.
Waterpik Cordless Flosser
Lazy Flossers, Take Note
If it’s hard for you to find the motivation to floss every day, don’t shame yourself; just invest in the Waterpik Cordless Flosser. This handy little tool is battery-operated, with two pressure settings that range from 45 to 75 PSI (1200 pulses per minute), so flossing is as easy as pressing the on button. All you have to do is remember to replace the batteries once every month or so. In addition to being portable and easy-to-use, the Waterpik has been clinically proven to remove up to 99.9 percent of plaque, and is even said to be up to 50 percent more effective than regular string floss, according to the American Dental Association.
Pros:
- Battery-operated, lightweight, and portable, so it’s easy to use.
- Has two different pressure settings.
- Has been clinically proven to be more effective than string floss, by the ADA.
Cons:
- It’s definitely on the expensive end.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I floss my teeth?
Ideally, you should floss your teeth at least once per day. If that’s too daunting though, always remember: something is better than nothing.
How long should it take to floss?
It should only take you around two minutes or so.
If I’ve never (or rarely) flossed, should I even bother starting?
Absolutely. It’s never too late to start flossing, no matter how old you are.
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