Waxed vs. Unwaxed Dental Floss: What’s the Difference & Which One Should You Use?
You’ve committed to flossing—great! But now you’re standing in the dental care aisle, wondering: waxed or unwaxed floss? Is one more effective than the other? In this article, we’ll compare the two, look at their pros and cons, and help you choose the best dental floss for your needs.
Read the ADA’s guide on choosing the right floss for your oral health.
What’s the Purpose of Dental Floss?
Dental floss is designed to remove plaque and food debris from between teeth and under the gumline—places toothbrushes can’t reach. Regular flossing helps:
- Prevent tooth decay
- Reduce gum inflammation
- Lower the risk of bad breath
- Improve overall oral hygiene
Not flossing yet? Read our post on why flossing is necessary.
Waxed Floss: Features & Benefits
Waxed floss is coated with a thin layer of wax, making it slightly thicker and smoother.
Pros:
- Glides easily between tight teeth
- Less likely to shred or break
- Often flavored (mint, cinnamon) for freshness
- Great for beginners
Cons:
- May be slightly harder to grip with wet hands
- Wax coating can feel slippery to some users
Unwaxed Floss: Features & Benefits
Unwaxed floss is made of thin nylon strands with no coating.
Pros:
- Slightly thinner, ideal for very tight spaces
- Gives a “squeaky clean” feel between teeth
- More natural (no additives or flavors)
Cons:
- Can fray or break more easily
- Harder to slide between overlapping teeth
Which One Should You Choose?
Ultimately, both waxed and unwaxed floss are equally effective—the key is using whichever you’ll stick with consistently.
Choose waxed floss if you:
✅ Have tight teeth
✅ Want a smoother feel and added flavor
✅ Are new to flossing
Choose unwaxed floss if you:
✅ Prefer a thinner floss
✅ Like a more “grippy” texture
✅ Have widely spaced or flat teeth
Need help building a flossing habit? Explore our full oral care routine guide.
Flossing Alternatives to Consider
If traditional floss doesn’t work for you, try:
- Floss picks – Easy for on-the-go use
- Water flossers – Ideal for braces and sensitive gums
- Interdental brushes – Great for larger gaps between teeth
Still Unsure? Ask a Dentist
The best floss is the one you’ll use daily. At Maxilla Dental, we help patients find the right tools and techniques to make oral hygiene easy and effective.
📅 Book your next dental visit now and get personalized advice on building your best oral care routine.
