Flossing is not always the most convenient or easy thing to do. It can be difficult to find the time, especially if you’re busy, and it can be uncomfortable or even painful in some cases. Luckily, other floss substitutes can help keep your gums healthy and prevent plaque from building up so easily. There are many different ways to floss, which is why dental professionals frequently recommend using a combination of methods for the best results. But that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t find something that works for you as a floss substitute when the need arises! Here are seven of the greatest floss substitutes for maintaining healthy gums.
Tethering
Tethering is very similar to flossing, but with a twist. The difference lies in the method of tying knots—instead of making one or two knots near the start and finish of the thread, you’ll make several knots every few inches along the length of the thread. One thing to keep in mind is that this method is best for those with smaller mouths and a smaller number of teeth. If you have wide-set or larger teeth, you might find this method a little difficult to use. If you’re not a fan of flossing, or if you find that you’re not able to do so as often as your dentist recommends (due to time or discomfort), then tethering can be a great alternative for you!
Floss-on-a-stick
Unlike standard dental floss, which is usually made with a thin, strong string, floss-on-a-stick is a little different. This floss substitute combines the advantages of both a toothbrush and dental floss, just in a more convenient and portable form. Floss-on-a-stick is often made with a thin, flexible string attached to a wooden or plastic handle. This type of floss is great for people with sensitive teeth and gums, as it is usually less abrasive than dental floss. Because the floss is attached to a stick, you can easily reach back teeth that are difficult to access with regular floss. Although not all dental professionals recommend using floss-on-a-stick, it can be a great option for those who have trouble using regular floss.
Oral Irrigation
While not technically a substitute for flossing, oral irrigation is a great alternative for those who want to maintain healthy teeth and gums without having to floss every day. Oral irrigation is also considered a way to prevent cavities and plaque and is often used by dentists and hygienists in addition to manual cleaning. The difference between using a water flosser and oral irrigation is that with oral irrigation, a solution is used instead of just water. There are many different types of oral irrigation solutions available, some of which include antibacterial ingredients or fluoride to prevent cavities and promote healthy teeth. Depending on your oral health, you may find that oral irrigation is a great alternative to flossing.
Gum Care Stick With Floss Coating
A gum care stick is a toothbrush-like tool that has been coated in wax or resin to make it easier to floss. Gum care sticks usually have a blunt tip that is designed to slide under the gumline, which is a key part of flossing—especially when it comes to reaching back teeth. Gum care sticks are generally made with a softer material than a toothbrush, so they don’t irritate gums as much. This can be especially useful for those with sensitive teeth or gums. Gum care sticks are also generally smaller than toothbrushes, so they’re easier to fit into smaller mouths. Gum care sticks are typically coated with wax, which is what makes them easier to floss. This allows the gum care stick to glide along the teeth and gums easily, helping to remove plaque. Similar to floss-on-a-stick, gum care sticks are great for those who have trouble using regular dental floss.
Manual Toothbrush With Flossing Strip
A manual toothbrush with a flossing strip attached to the back is a common floss substitute. A flossing strip is a long, thin piece of plastic that has been coated in wax or another similar material to make it easier to slide along the teeth and gums. This type of floss substitute is great for those who prefer to use a manual toothbrush to clean. Unlike traditional floss, however, a flossing strip is not meant to be held in the teeth like regular floss. Instead, you’ll want to use the flossing strip to “floss” the teeth by slowly sliding it back and forth along the surface of the teeth until you have cleaned the entire mouth. Flossing strips are generally a great option for those who have difficulty using traditional floss due to difficulty or discomfort.
Bristle Brush With Flossing Tape
A bristle brush with flossing tape wrapped around the bristles is another alternative to regular floss. Bristle brushes are designed to be softer than toothbrushes, which makes them less abrasive and better for gums. Bristle brushes are also usually smaller than toothbrushes, which makes them perfect for smaller mouths. Brush bristles are usually wrapped in a thin plastic flossing tape, making them easier to use than regular plastic floss. Similar to the other options on this list, flossing tape on a bristle brush is not meant to be held in the teeth like traditional floss. Instead, you want to use the flossing tape to “floss” the teeth by slowly sliding it back and forth along the teeth until you have cleaned the entire mouth. Brush bristles with flossing tape are a great option for those who have difficulty using traditional floss.
Dental Floss Holder With Cord Or String
Dental floss holders are just like dental floss except without thread. Instead, a dental floss holder will have a reel or string that you can wrap around your fingers to “floss” your teeth in a similar way. Dental floss holders are often used by people who have braces or other dental appliances in their mouths. They’re also sometimes recommended for those who have limited mobility in their hands. Dental floss holders are great for those who prefer not to thread dental floss through their teeth. They are also a great option for those who have difficulty with manual dexterity or finger strength. Like dental floss, dental floss holders are meant to be used between teeth to remove plaque.
Conclusion
Unlike other floss substitutes, dental floss is an oral hygiene tool that is meant to be used between teeth to remove plaque and food particles. Because of its location, dental floss helps prevent gingivitis and tooth decay by removing harmful bacteria from the teeth. It is recommended that you floss once a day, following proper technique and using a new length of floss each time. Depending on your oral health, you may find that one of these floss substitutes is a better fit than traditional floss. But no matter which one you pick, make sure that you are keeping up with daily flossing to keep your teeth and gums healthy!
