Whether conventional dental floss is waxed, unwaxed or flavored, it is equally effective as long as you use it properly. However, if you are not a fan of standard dental floss, there are other flossing options available to clean the spaces between your teeth and along your gum line. Here are a few:

Interdental Brushes

Interdental brushes are small brushes that are used for personal and daily teeth cleaning. They resemble tiny pipe cleaners are quite effective at removing plaque. In fact, according to one study, they are preferable to traditional floss for removing the plaque from between your teeth.

Electric Flosser

An electric flosser, such as the Oral B Hummingbird, is a Y-shaped, battery-powered device that vibrates as you floss. The vibrations massage your gums and help reduce the mess associated with flossing. In addition, unlike conventional dental floss, an electric flosser only requires one hand to operate.

Floss Picks

Floss picks are plastic tools that combine the function of dental floss with that of a toothpick. The picks are commonly shaped like the letter "P." Hard plastic makes up most of the pick. However, the outer upper portion of the "P" is comprised of about an inch and a half of string floss. In addition, the bottom of the "P" is pointed like a tooth pick.

Although a floss pick is convenient for on-the-go flossing, it may be difficult to angle the tool correctly to reach all the areas of your teeth that conventional flossing can reach.

Water Flosser

A water flosser is an oral irrigator that uses a concentrated stream of water to "floss" the areas between your teeth. The device consists of a water reservoir and a wand. Using the wand, the water flow can be directed to specific areas of your mouth, including the gum line and the spaces between teeth. In addition, the force of the flow is adjustable.

Water and Air Flosser

A water and air flosser, such as the Sonicare Airfloss, uses water and air to clean biofilm from between your teeth. These products can floss quickly. In fact, the Sonicare device can clean an entire mouth in about 30 seconds. 

Aside from conventional dental floss, there are several flossing options available to clean the spaces between your teeth. There is a device for practically every price point and preference. Consult with your dentist to find out which option may be best for you.

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