Dental Floss

Traditional dental floss is typically made from nylon or polyester, which are petroleum-derived materials. These flosses may also be coated with a petroleum-derived wax for easier use. If you use a basic dental floss from any of the major brands in oral care, this is the type of floss you probably use.

NatruSmile floss is crafted from natural fibers that are strong and durable. We also infuse our floss with activated charcoal for its natural cleansing properties and add a hint of natural mint for a refreshing finish. This composition not only ensures effective cleaning but also aligns with our commitment to protecting the environment.

Despite the integral role dental floss plays in oral health maintenance, it typically isn't eligible for Flexible Spending Account (FSA) or Health Savings Account (HSA) reimbursement. This rule applies to general self-care items such as toothpaste, toothbrushes, and floss, even when these items are recommended by dental professionals for oral care.

Specialized or medicated toothpastes also fall into this category. As of now, these items are seen as "general health aids" rather than necessary medical supplies, which is the criteria for FSA and HSA eligibility.

Not all dental floss contains Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), but some do. Certain brands of dental floss, including Oral-B Glide, could contribute to higher levels of PFAS in the body due to fluorine, a marker of PFAS chemicals.

However, PFAS are common in many household products, from non-stick cookware to stain-resistant fabrics, and as a result, most people already have some level of PFAS in their bodies. The focus should be on reducing future exposure to these chemicals where possible.

Plenty of floss brands, including NatruSmile dental floss, are PFAS-free products.

Dental floss picks might be more convenient due to their easy-to-handle design that helps you reach the back of your mouth, but they are not necessarily better than traditional dental floss.

Some dental professionals argue that floss picks might even have some drawbacks. If they aren't used with care, they cause damage to your gums, including bleeding, receding gum lines, and cuts.

Floss picks may not be as effective as traditional floss in removing plaque and food particles between the teeth. The design of floss picks doesn't allow for the same level of flexibility and adaptability that regular floss provides to clean the tight spaces between teeth and along the gum line. Since traditional dental floss allows users to slide between teeth and gums, it is often considered the practical choice when it comes to flossing.

The ADA recommends flossing as an essential element of your daily oral hygiene routine. Flossing at least once per day removes plaque and food particles from between teeth and along your gum line, where a toothbrush can't reach very well. This helps prevent tooth decay and gum disease, both of which can lead to more serious dental problems down the line. 

Flossing also helps stimulate healthy gums, promoting better circulation and improving the overall health of your mouth. It's important to floss correctly in order to make sure you're getting the full benefits of flossing.

Toothpaste is not necessary to get the full benefits of flossing — all you need are some high-quality dental floss and a bit of patience. That said, applying a bit of toothpaste to the floss can help with plaque removal and improve the overall effectiveness of your flossing routine.

If you add a bit of NatruSmile Teeth Whitening Toothpaste to your dental floss, you'll benefit from slightly more pronounced whitening effects. If your goal is to remove the most plaque and bacteria possible, then toothpaste might be a good addition to your flossing routine.

It is possible for flossing to push food into the gums if a person has existing dental problems such as gingivitis or gum disease, aggressive or improper flossing techniques. If you're experiencing such problems, it's important to consult a dental professional to help guide your oral hygiene routine.

The best way to avoid this issue is to use gentle techniques and be mindful of how deeply you are flossing. It can help to slightly curve the floss around the tooth surface, so that the string lightly touches the gum line rather than forcefully pushing against it. It's also wise to floss before brushing and rinse with an antiseptic mouthwash afterwards, as this can help prevent additional plaque buildup and protect your gums from food particles.

If your gums hurt after flossing, that means you haven't flossed enough in the past. Tenderness and sensitivity is generally a result of weakened gum tissue. When you floss, the impact against your gums toughens them over time, making them more resistant to plaque and tartar buildup.

Although flossing should not be a painful procedure, most beginners find that it is painful for the first few days while their gums build their initial strength back up.

You should floss at least once per day, per the ADA's general guidelines for a healthy oral care routine. Ideally, you should floss after every time you eat to ensure that any food particles left behind are removed from between your teeth.

By incorporating flossing into your daily routine, you can maintain optimal oral hygiene and reduce the risk of gum disease, cavities, and other dental issues. It's important to note that flossing in conjunction with regular brushing, along with regular dental check-ups, is key to achieving and maintaining good oral health.

While dental floss is an effective tool for removing plaque and debris from between your teeth and along the gum line, its effectiveness depends on how it is used. If you are only sliding the floss along the tooth surfaces without dipping beneath the gum line, it may not effectively remove plaque and tartar that can accumulate in those areas.

Dental floss also won’t work to reverse cavities, tooth decay, or severely progressed gum disease or recession along the gum line. In these instances, it is best to take restorative measures to treat these problems with your dentist first.

In the initial days of flossing, you will probably experience gum sensitivity, bleeding, and soreness. This is normal and can be attributed to the removal of plaque and buildup that has accumulated between the teeth and along the gum line. As you continue to floss regularly, typically within 3-10 days, your gum tissue will start to adapt and become less sensitive. Over time, the bleeding should diminish, indicating healthier gums.

The timeline for seeing results from regular flossing can vary from person to person. However, with consistent flossing, you can typically expect to see visual and physical improvements in your gum health within a few weeks.

In terms of its functionality, dental floss does not expire. Similar to toothbrushes, the actual flossing material can last indefinitely, regardless of when it was purchased. It will retain its ability to clean between your teeth effectively, even if it's been sitting in your medicine cabinet for a while. This longevity ensures that you can always have floss on hand when you need it.

If the dental floss is flavored, as is the case with NatruSmile's minty fresh dental floss, the flavoring may lose its potency over time. Typically, flavored floss will start to lose its taste about one year after its manufacture date. But even then, the floss itself will continue to function as intended, providing effective cleaning between your teeth and gums.

Dental floss is sterilized during manufacturing to ensure that it is safe to use in your mouth, which can be a breeding ground for decay and disease-causing bacteria. The sterilization process is important as the floss navigates through tight spaces between your teeth, areas that often harbor these bacteria.

If the floss is appropriately stored in a cool, dry place and its packaging remains intact, it will maintain its sterility. It's worth noting that handling the floss package with clean hands is essential to maintain its cleanliness once the floss package is opened.

Unfortunately, traditional waxed or unwaxed dental floss is not recyclable due to its small size and the fact that it's often made of a mix of materials, including nylon and polyester. After use, floss also becomes a potential biohazard, carrying bacteria and food particles that make it unsuitable for recycling. However, the containers in which dental floss is often packaged can be recycled, depending on the materials used.

Recycling centers are not equipped to process such small items, and they often end up in landfills anyway or contaminate other recyclable materials. That's why NatruSmile uses biodegradable dental floss made from silk and candelilla wax, which is a much more environmentally friendly option.

Bleeding usually occurs when you first start flossing, especially if you haven't regularly maintained this practice. This is usually due to inflammation and sensitivity in the gums caused by plaque and bacteria buildup. If the bleeding continues after a week or so of regular flossing, it's advised to consult with a dentist as it could indicate a more serious issue such as gum disease.

Remember, consistent and correct flossing helps to reduce inflammation and bleeding over time. If you experience prolonged discomfort or pain while flossing, it might be a good idea to seek advice from a dental professional to ensure you're using the correct technique (and to rule out any other potential conditions).

Flossing before brushing may be the most effective method for thoroughly removing dental plaque. According to the study, when participants flossed before brushing, there was a far more noticeable reduction in the amount of plaque present between their teeth and in their mouth.

In the study, 25 participants were first asked to brush and then floss (brush-floss). In the second phase, the same group was asked to floss first, then brush their teeth (floss-brush). 

The 'floss-brush' method proved to be more effective in overall plaque reduction, leading to the recommendation that flossing should precede brushing for the most beneficial oral hygiene routine.

Flossing isn't just about cleaning between the teeth—it's also about reaching under the gum line where plaque can accumulate. After sliding the floss between your teeth, it's recommended to curve it around the tooth in a C-shape. This allows the floss to enter the space between the tooth and the gum. Ideally, you should aim to gently slide the floss 2-3 millimeters beneath the gum line.

This method effectively disrupts and removes plaque buildup without causing harm to the gums. It's crucial to remember, though, that flossing should not be painful. If you experience discomfort, adjust your technique to accommodate.

Dentists and dental hygienists can often tell if you have not been flossing regularly. During a dental exam, they will always observe the condition of your gums, including plaque and tartar buildup and the overall health of your oral tissues. As they gently probe your gums, they assess the sensitivity, bleeding, or inflammation that may indicate inadequate flossing.

The sensitivity of your gum tissue is a key indicator of your flossing habits. When the gums aren't used to flossing, they are weaker and more tender (which they can see regardless of whether you show pain). Sometimes, they will start bleeding or hurt you as soon as a dental instrument touches them.

Dental professionals are trained to recognize these signs—not because they want to "catch you" but because they want to help you keep your mouth healthy.

The short answer is yes. Flossing is an absolutely necessary part of any oral hygiene regimen. Brushing alone can't remove plaque and food particles from between the teeth, so it's important to use floss at least once per day to maintain healthy gums and prevent tooth decay.

Even if you brush twice a day, not flossing will leave your mouth vulnerable to plaque and bacteria buildup, which can lead to cavities, gum disease, and bad breath. Flossing helps keep your mouth clean, healthy, and fully functional by removing the debris that brushing alone can't reach.

Dental floss is available for purchase in nearly every convenience store, supermarket, and drug store. You can also find it in dental product stores, such as dentists’ offices, and online from many different retailers. There are a wide variety of sizes, flavors, and materials available to choose from depending on your preference. Unfortunately, many of these contain PFAS, microplastics, and nasty residues you probably don't want on your teeth.

NatruSmile Dental Floss is available for immediate purchase and worldwide shipping at the top of this page. It's made from natural fibers and it is free of chemicals, toxins, and artificial flavors. It's perfect for those who want a safe and healthy flossing experience while helping to protect their teeth and gums.

Well, it's a bit like finding your perfect match—it's all about personal preference and what your mouth needs. When selecting the right dental floss, several factors should be taken into account, including the floss type, thickness and texture, waxed or unwaxed variations, as well as personal requirements and conditions.

There’s a whole bunch of floss options out there such as nylon floss, PTFE floss (fancy name for glide floss), dental tape and even floss made of bamboo or even activated charcoal dental floss!

Floss is available in different thicknesses, ranging from thin to regular, and may have a smooth or textured surface.

Thinner floss is often recommended by dentists for closely spaced teeth, while textured floss can provide enhanced plaque removal. Experimenting with various thicknesses and textures can help individuals determine their preferred flossing experience.

Waxed floss is coated with wax, enabling smoother gliding between teeth, while unwaxed floss may have a thinner profile and different texture. It is always advisable to select the option that feels both comfortable and effective for you.

Additionally, it is crucial to consider any specific oral health concerns. For individuals with sensitive gums or braces, softer or specialized floss designed for these conditions may be suitable for your teeth and gums.

Consulting with a dentist or dental hygienist is highly recommended, as they can provide professional guidance in choosing the most suitable floss based on individual needs.

Both morning and night are suitable times for flossing, ultimately depending on personal preference and your oral hygiene routine. Flossing at night has its advantages as it helps remove plaque and debris that have accumulated throughout the day, leaving your teeth feeling cleaner and fresher when you wake up in the morning. It also keeps food particles from situating overnight, reducing the risk of plaque buildup and potential oral health issues.

Ideally, your oral hygiene routine should involve brushing and flossing twice a day—once in the morning and once at bedtime.