Waxed floss, with its smooth coating, is a popular option, yet it is also the subject of consumer concern regarding the materials used and whether they may pose a risk to health. This article explores the facts behind these concerns, examining the role of the wax coating, its impact on cleaning performance, the safety of its ingredients, and the truth behind common misconceptions. The primary question is whether the convenience of waxed floss comes at any cost to your oral health or general well-being.
Defining the Role of Wax in Dental Floss
Dental floss is constructed from multiple strands of material, typically nylon or other synthetic fibers. Waxed floss applies a thin layer of wax over this material. The wax serves a dual function to improve the user experience.
The coating acts as a lubricant, which significantly improves the floss’s ability to glide smoothly between teeth, particularly in areas with tight contact points. This lubrication reduces the friction that can make unwaxed floss difficult or painful to insert. Furthermore, the wax coating reinforces the fiber, helping to bind the individual strands and reduce the likelihood of fraying or shredding during use, especially around rough fillings or dental work. This physical integrity makes waxed floss a preferred choice for individuals with braces or other fixed dental appliances.
Mechanical Impact on Cleaning Efficacy
The physical presence of the wax coating influences how the floss interacts with the tooth surface during cleaning. Waxed floss is often thicker than its unwaxed counterpart due to the added layer, which some users find provides a better grip and more controlled movement. Research comparing the two types consistently shows that both waxed and unwaxed floss are equally effective at removing plaque and preventing gum disease when used correctly.
Unwaxed floss, conversely, may be slightly thinner and can fan out more between teeth, offering a potentially broader surface area for plaque removal. However, the unwaxed variety is also far more susceptible to breaking and shredding, which can frustrate users and discourage consistent flossing. The effectiveness of interdental cleaning depends far more on the user’s technique and consistency than on the presence or absence of a wax coating.
Safety Profile of Floss Coating Ingredients
The wax coating on traditional floss is typically made from a natural wax like beeswax, or synthetic waxes such as paraffin or microcrystalline wax. These substances are generally considered inert and safe for oral use, and the American Dental Association evaluates and approves products that use them.
However, a separate area of concern involves the base material of some “glide” type flosses, which often use polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), a synthetic polymer. PTFE is a type of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substance (PFAS), which are a group of chemicals also known as “forever chemicals” due to their persistence in the environment and the human body. Studies have found an association between the use of PTFE-based dental floss and higher levels of certain PFAS compounds in the bloodstream of users. While manufacturers assert that the PTFE in their products is chemically bound and safe, and the overall exposure from floss is likely minor compared to other sources, this link has driven some consumers to seek alternatives. For those wishing to limit their exposure to PFAS, choosing floss made from nylon or silk with a simple wax coating, such as beeswax or vegetable wax, can be a preference.
Dispelling Misconceptions About Waxed Floss
One of the most persistent concerns is the misconception that the wax coating detaches from the floss and leaves a residue that can cause cavities or damage existing dental work. The wax layer on modern dental floss is extremely thin and is designed to remain adhered to the thread during the flossing process. Any minute amount of wax that may rub off is not known to build up between teeth or contribute to tooth decay.
Another common belief is that unwaxed floss is inherently superior because the friction generated by the uncoated strands provides a better “scrubbing” action. While unwaxed floss can provide more tactile feedback, allowing users to “feel” the plaque removal, studies have repeatedly demonstrated no significant difference in the actual amount of plaque removed between the two types. The choice between waxed and unwaxed ultimately comes down to what encourages the individual to floss daily.