What Is Dental Floss Made Of? Complete Guide to Materials, Types, and BenefitsExpert Insights from Valis Dental

What Is Dental Floss

Table of Contents

1. Why Knowing Dental Floss Material Matters

At Valis Dental, many patients ask:
“What is dental floss made of? Is it safe? Which one should I choose?”

Knowing what your floss is made of helps you make smarter choices for oral hygiene, especially in tight spaces your toothbrush can’t reach.

2. What Is Dental Floss?

Dental floss is a thin thread used to remove plaque, food particles, and bacteria from between teeth and below the gumline. Regular flossing supports healthier gums, prevents tooth decay, and promotes fresher breath.

3. What Is Dental Floss Made Of?

There are two main types of dental floss materials:

a. Nylon (Polyamide) Floss

Description: Made from multiple twisted strands.
Pros: Soft, flexible, cost-effective, widely available.
Cons: May fray or tear in tight spaces.

b. PTFE (Polytetrafluoroethylene) Floss

Description: A single-strand synthetic polymer (also used in Gore-Tex).
Pros: Strong, smooth, glides easily between tight teeth, shred-resistant.
Cons: Slightly more expensive than nylon floss.

Additional Features:

Wax Coating: Enhances glide between teeth.
Flavored Coating (e.g., mint): Freshens breath.
Fluoride Coating: Adds cavity protection.

4. Is Dental Floss Safe to Use?

Yes—dental floss is completely safe when used properly.

Flossing Tips for Safety:

Avoid snapping floss into your gums.
Use a gentle sawing motion.
Wrap the floss in a “C” shape around each tooth.
Always use a clean section for each tooth.
Never reuse old floss.

At Valis Dental, we teach proper flossing techniques to ensure you clean effectively without damaging your gums.

5. Top Benefits of Using Dental Floss

Regular flossing offers several benefits:

Removes plaque and debris between teeth.
Prevents interproximal cavities (between teeth).
Reduces gum inflammation and bleeding.
Freshens breath.
Helps prevent tartar buildup.
Supports long-term gum health and prevents periodontal disease.

6. Types of Dental Floss

a. Traditional Floss (Spool)

Comes in a roll. You cut the length you need.
Ideal for personal customization.

b. Floss Picks

A plastic holder with pre-strung floss.
Convenient for travel or children.

c. Waxed/Flavored Floss

Coated with wax, fluoride, or mint.
Easier to glide and adds freshness.

d. Water Flossers (Oral Irrigators)

Uses water jets to clean between teeth.
Ideal for people with braces, implants, or bridges.

7. Dentist’s Advice on How to Use Floss

At Valis Dental, we recommend:

Floss once daily, ideally before bedtime.
Use PTFE floss for tight teeth.
If you wear braces or dental implants, use special floss or water flossers.
Don’t substitute flossing for brushing—they should go hand-in-hand.

8. Common Mistakes to Avoid When Flossing

Reusing floss.
Flossing too forcefully (causes gum injury).
Using the same section for multiple teeth.
Not curving floss around each tooth.
Skipping flossing entirely.

9. Conclusion: A Tiny Tool With Huge Impact

Though small, dental floss plays a huge role in protecting your oral health. Knowing what dental floss is made of, and how to use it properly, can prevent major dental problems in the long term.

Need help choosing the right floss or want to master flossing technique?
📍 Visit Valis Dental today for expert consultation and personalized oral care.