Floss vs. Dental Picks

Floss and dental picks are both effective in removing plaque and food debris from between the teeth. Many patients find floss easier to use, particularly between back teeth. However, there are some patients who find picks easier to use, particularly between front teeth.

Dental floss is a thin string, usually made of nylon, which is coated in wax or plastic material. Floss is designed to slide between teeth, wrapping around each tooth and scraping off plaque and food debris. Dental floss is typically available in a variety of flavors, including mint, cinnamon, and wintergreen.

Dental picks are also thin and are available in a variety of materials, including plastic, metal, and Teflon-coated. Like floss, picks are designed to slide between teeth and wrap around each tooth. However, unlike floss, picks do not wrap around each tooth or scrape against each tooth.