A flosser, commonly known as a floss pick, is a small, handheld device designed to simplify the process of interdental cleaning. It consists of a plastic handle with a short segment of dental floss stretched tautly between two prongs. This design offers a convenient alternative to traditional string floss, which requires wrapping and maneuvering a long strand around the fingers. The rise in popularity of these tools has led many people to question if this convenience compromises the effectiveness of their oral hygiene routine. The central inquiry is whether floss picks can truly substitute for string floss in the removal of plaque and debris.
Floss Picks Versus Traditional String Floss
The primary difference in plaque removal efficacy between the two tools comes down to the ability to contour the floss around the tooth’s surface. Traditional string floss allows a person to wrap the strand into a “C-shape,” which is necessary to maximize contact with the entire tooth surface, particularly beneath the gumline. This technique disrupts and clears away subgingival plaque, which is a major contributor to gum disease.
Floss picks, by contrast, feature a fixed, short length of floss that is held straight and taut by the plastic frame. This structural limitation makes it significantly harder to adapt the floss to the natural curve of the tooth, especially in the back of the mouth. One clinical trial comparing a floss pick to rolled floss found both devices removed a statistically similar amount of plaque.
The fixed handle of the pick can also pose a maneuverability issue, making it difficult to reach the back surfaces of the posterior molars effectively. The rigid plastic handle can obstruct the necessary angle of approach to clean the furthest teeth. Despite these structural limitations, the ease of use of a floss pick encourages more consistent flossing, which may offset the mechanical disadvantage in some individuals.
Maximizing Effectiveness Through Proper Technique
To overcome the structural limitations of the floss pick, a specific, deliberate technique is necessary for maximum plaque removal. Begin by holding the handle firmly, ensuring you have complete control over the small section of floss. Gently guide the floss segment between the contact points of two teeth using a slight rocking motion to avoid snapping it onto the gums.
Once the floss is past the contact point, attempt to curve the floss around the side of one tooth, pushing it slightly below the gumline. This is the most challenging step due to the fixed nature of the floss on the pick. Slide the floss up and down four to five times against the side of the tooth, cleaning the entire surface. Repeat this process on the adjacent tooth before removing the pick.
A significant consideration when using a floss pick is the potential for spreading bacteria. Since the same small segment of floss is used repeatedly, it can transport plaque and food debris from one interdental space to the next. To mitigate this, rinse the floss pick thoroughly after cleaning each tooth, or use a fresh pick for each quadrant of the mouth. The pointed end of many floss picks can be used to dislodge larger food particles, but use it with care to avoid irritating the gum tissue.
Situational Utility and Practical Constraints
While string floss may offer superior plaque removal when performed with perfect technique, floss picks have distinct advantages in practical settings. Their simple design makes them an effective option for individuals with limited manual dexterity. People with conditions like arthritis, as well as children or caregivers assisting others, often find the long handle much easier to grip and control than manipulating a strand of string floss with their fingers.
The convenience of floss picks also makes them highly suitable for use outside the home, such as during travel or after a meal at work. They require only one hand, simplifying the process of cleaning up food particles when a full oral hygiene routine is not possible. This ease of access can lead to greater consistency, which is a major benefit for overall oral health.
However, the disposable nature of floss picks creates a significant environmental drawback, as they contribute to plastic waste. Furthermore, relying solely on floss picks without proper technique can lead to a shallow flossing habit that fails to clean deep into the gum pockets. While they are better than not flossing at all, they should be used with attention to technique to avoid missing critical areas.