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Artisan Dentistry's Blog

Waxed vs. Unwaxed Dental Floss: Which One Should You Use?

Apr 22nd, 2026
waxed-vs-unwaxed-dental-floss

If you’ve ever shopped for dental floss (and you really should!), you may have noticed there are two common varieties of traditional nylon floss: waxed and unwaxed. While they both serve the same purpose, they feel very different and can work better for different mouths.

If you’ve ever wondered which type is best, here’s a simple breakdown of the pros and cons of each.

Waxed Dental Floss

Waxed floss is coated with a thin layer of wax, which helps it glide more smoothly between teeth. Because of this coating, it tends to be stronger and less likely to tear or shred while you floss.

Many people prefer waxed floss because it feels sturdier and is easier to maneuver, especially if you’re still getting used to flossing regularly.

Benefits of Waxed Floss

  • Slides more easily between teeth
  • Less likely to shred or break
  • Often easier to handle for beginners

Unwaxed Dental Floss

Unwaxed floss does not have the same smooth coating, which means it may feel thinner. Some people actually prefer this because it can fit into very tight spaces more easily. If your teeth are crowded or closely spaced, unwaxed floss may be more comfortable.

However, unwaxed floss can be more likely to fray or snap, especially if your teeth have rough edges or if you have dental work such as fillings or crowns.

Benefits of Unwaxed Floss

  • May fit better between very tight teeth
  • Often feels thinner and more flexible
  • Typically less slippery, which some people prefer

What About Flavor?

Another difference between waxed and unwaxed floss is that waxed floss is more likely to come in flavored varieties, such as mint. For some people, this is a bonus and can make flossing feel fresher and more enjoyable.

On the other hand, if you prefer floss that is plain and unflavored, unwaxed floss may be a better option.

Are There Any Safety Concerns?

Some floss products may contain specialty coatings or materials that help them slide between the teeth more easily. Certain consumers prefer to avoid these coatings due to concerns about specific chemical ingredients used in some floss products.

If you are unsure about the ingredients in your floss, check the packaging or look for brands that clearly label their materials. There are also floss options marketed as natural or chemical-free for those who want a simpler product.

Which Floss Works Better?

The good news is that both waxed and unwaxed floss can effectively clean between your teeth when used properly. The best floss is the one you will use consistently.

If waxed floss slides easier and feels more comfortable, choose waxed. If unwaxed floss fits better between tight teeth, choose unwaxed. The goal is simply to remove plaque and food particles that your toothbrush can’t reach.

What If You Have Braces?

If you have braces, waxed floss is usually the better choice. Unwaxed floss can be more likely to shred and leave small strands behind, which may get caught in brackets and wires.

Many people with braces also find it helpful to use floss threaders, orthodontic floss, or even a water flosser to make cleaning between teeth easier.

The Bottom Line

Waxed and unwaxed floss both get the job done. The right choice depends on your teeth, your comfort level, and your personal preference. If you’re unsure which option is best for your mouth, ask your dentist or hygienist during your next visit—they can recommend the right floss for your needs.

No matter which type you choose, flossing daily is one of the best habits you can build for a healthier smile.

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Anyone can train to be a technician, but few have the talent to become an artist. That’s why Dr. Mathew is able to guarantee his cosmetic dentistry work for a full 5 years. If anything goes wrong with the work, Dr. Mathew will fix it free of charge, as long as you continue with your regular 6 month preventative care cleaning and check up for the duration of the warranty.

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Here at Paul Mathew, D.D.S. we work diligently to protect our patients' privacy. Requesting an appointment via our Internet portal is considered part of what the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) has identified as electronically protected healthcare information or ePHI. Unfortunately, despite our best efforts, there are people or entities that may attempt to intercept the data you transmit to us. By checking the "I agree" box, and electronically making an appointment request, you acknowledge that you are making an appointment over the internet and that Paul Mathew, D.D.S. will keep this information confidential but cannot guarantee that others, outside of our practice, may illegally intercept this communication. By accepting these terms and conditions and sending this request via our Internet portal, you accept the inherent risk(s) associated with making this request for an appointment. If you do not accept the terms and conditions, you are always welcome to contact our office via telephone to schedule your appointment.

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Here at Paul Mathew, D.D.S. we work diligently to protect our patients' privacy. Requesting an appointment via our Internet portal is considered part of what the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) has identified as electronically protected healthcare information or ePHI. Unfortunately, despite our best efforts, there are people or entities that may attempt to intercept the data you transmit to us. By checking the "I agree" box, and electronically making an appointment request, you acknowledge that you are making an appointment over the internet and that Paul Mathew, D.D.S. will keep this information confidential but cannot guarantee that others, outside of our practice, may illegally intercept this communication. By accepting these terms and conditions and sending this request via our Internet portal, you accept the inherent risk(s) associated with making this request for an appointment. If you do not accept the terms and conditions, you are always welcome to contact our office via telephone to schedule your appointment.

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The information presented here is not intended or implied to be medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. It should be used for informational purposes only.