Top 6 Best Floss Picks | My Dental Advocate (2024)

Dentist Tested and Reviewed
Top 6 Best Floss Picks | My Dental Advocate (1)
Matt Hannan, DDS
Updated: April 30, 2024
Top 6 Best Floss Picks | My Dental Advocate (2)

Did you know that as few as 10% of Americans floss daily?

Unfortunately, brushing alone is ineffective at removing plaque, especially between the teeth.

Fortunately, many ways to effectively clean between teeth include string floss, water flossers, air flossers, and floss picks

As an experienced dentist with years of experience, I’ve tested and evaluated 300+ dental products. I strive to find the best products for achieving excellent oral hygiene, so let’s take a closer look at the Best Floss Picks from a dentist’s perspective.

Related:

Top 8 Best Dental Floss Review 2024

Buying Guide

  1. Best Overall: Plackers Micro Mint Dental Flossers
  2. Best Budget: DenTek Advanced Clean Floss Picks
  3. Best All-Natural: The Humble Co. Floss Picks
  4. Best Durable: GUM Professional Clean Floss Picks
  5. Best Travel: GUM Proxabrush Go-Betweens Cleaners
  6. Best Comfort: GUM Soft-Picks Advanced

300+ Product Reviews

Evaluation Criteria

I (Dr. Hannan) tested each product for 7-14 days, detailing its pros and cons, and rate it from 1 to 5 in four key areas.

  • Effectiveness: Does the toothpaste treat the advertised need? How effective were the results?
  • Comfort: Was the toothpaste comfortable? Was there any burning, stinging or uncomfortable sensation?
  • Taste: How was the overall taste? Was it refreshing? Did it alter your sense of taste?
  • Likeability: Is the toothpaste likable and enjoyable to use?

Related Reviews

  • Best Water Flosser Review 2024
  • Best Bad Breath Mouthwash Review 2024
  • Best Complete Care Toothpaste Review 2024
  • Best Mouth Sore Products Review 2024

1. Best Overall | Plackers Micro Mint Dental Flossers

Best Overall

Top 6 Best Floss Picks | My Dental Advocate (3)

Plackers Micro Mint Dental Flossers

$4.48

Keep it looking fresh with Plackers Micro Mint Flossers.

Easily remove those bits of ick with smooth Super Tuffloss, engineered not to stretch, shred or break and a built-in fold-out toothpick that folds away after use. The easy grip handle provides more control and comfort while cleaning between your teeth and gums.

Rely on Plackers to get the gunk out. Enjoy fresh breath with a delicious mint flavor that leaves your mouth with a fresh clean feeling.

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05/20/2024 08:25 am GMT

Dentist Review

Plackers Micro Mint Dental Flossers are incredibly comfortable to use.

The floss pick is integrated into the flosser handle, so it doesn’t poke you when not used.

This creative design made using this product much more enjoyable. Also, the floss was effective at food removal, and no shred was observed.

In addition, the mint flavor was strong and did a great job freshening breath. Lastly, the handle has grooves for better handling, and the pick is sturdy to prevent flexing and bending. This floss pick is an excellent product for on-the-go flossing.

Highlights

  • It doesn’t stretch, shred or break
  • Mint flavor
  • Sure-zip seal bag
  • Easy-grip handle
  • Fold-out toothpick

Results

Effectiveness0

Comfort0

Taste0

Likability0

Total0

Best overall dental flosser with comfortable handle.

2. Best Budget | DenTek Advanced Clean Floss Picks

Best Budget

Top 6 Best Floss Picks | My Dental Advocate (4)

DenTek Triple Clean Advanced Clean Floss Picks

$3.6938

DenTek Triple Clean Advanced Clean Floss Picks have our thinnest, strongest floss that won't break or shred.

The floss on DenTek Triple Clean Advanced Clean Floss Picks is composed of over 200 individual cleaning strands. The micro-textured pick helps to scrape away stubborn bits of food and plaque, and the tongue cleaner helps to fight bad breath.

DenTek Triple Clean Advanced Clean Floss Picks feature Mouthwash blast flavored floss with fluoride-infused floss strands.

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Dentist Review

DenTek has developed a practical floss pick that easily removes plaque and food particles.

No shred was observed, and it was relatively easy to pass between teeth.

Unfortunately, the handle was slick and difficult to hold without slipping, especially as we maneuvered toward the back teeth.

However, it does feature an enjoyable mint flavor that freshens breath. Also, the fluoride-infused floss strands are a bonus to prevent tooth decay. Lastly, the pointed end was functional but began to bend soon after use.

Highlights

  • American Dental Association Accepted
  • No-break guarantee
  • Mouthwash blast flavor
  • Fluoride-infused floss strands
  • 200+ individual strands
  • Includestongue scraper
  • Micro-textured pick

Results

Effectiveness0

Comfort0

Taste0

Likability0

Total0

Best fluoride-infused floss strands.

3. Best All-Natural | The Humble Co. Floss Picks

Best All-Natural

Top 6 Best Floss Picks | My Dental Advocate (5)

The Humble Co. Floss Picks

$15.90

Floss picks made entirely from plastics? Old school. Try the Humble mint floss picks that use cornstarch as their main base.

Comes packed in an eco-friendly paper bag. Humble floss picks make flossing a piece of cake! The double threading ensures that food debris is effectively removed whilst the shape of the pick promotes easy access to those hard-to-reach places.

Made primarily from corn starch and packaged in eco-friendly paper packaging, humble mint floss picks aim to minimize the stress on our environment whilst providing a first-class experience.

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05/20/2024 08:10 am GMT

Dentist Review

The Humble Co. Floss Picks are uniquely designed with two strands of floss for a more thorough clean.

It was highly effective at plaque removal; however, the first strand often cut the gums when passing the second strand between the teeth.

Therefore, this floss pick is recommended for people with larger gaps between teeth. Lastly, the mint flavor of the floss was not as strong as we would have desired; however, the pointed end has great reach to access the back teeth.

Highlights

  • Nylon floss thread
  • Fresh and minty flavor
  • Plant-based materials
  • Twin floss-slides easily
  • Developed by dentists
  • Designed in Sweden
  • Vegan and BPA free
  • Pointed floss pick

Results

Effectiveness0

Comfort0

Taste0

Likability0

Total0

Best twin floss design and extended floss pick.

4. Best Durable | GUM Professional Clean Floss Picks

Best Extra-Strong

Top 6 Best Floss Picks | My Dental Advocate (6)

GUM Professional Clean Flossers Extra Strong Flosser Pick

$8.09

This completely redesigned flosser is ideal for on-the-go teeth cleaning and removing plaque not reached by toothbrushing alone.

The molded F-shaped handle provides excellent support and control to clean between the hard-to-reach back teeth Control grip handle features widened finger rest and ribbed grip for greater comfort and control. Improved gentle pick gently and safely cleans between teeth and massages gums.

Exceptional-quality shred-resistant string floss is gentle to gums. The satin-like finish provides nonstick lubrication for easy sliding through even the tightest contacts.

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05/20/2024 08:00 am GMT

Dentist Review

GUM Professional Clean Floss Picks effectively remove plaque and food between teeth. The waxed floss was extra strong, and no shred or sag was observed.

We were pleasantly surprised by the strong mint flavor and fresh breath effectiveness.

The handle was comfortable to grip; however, there was occasionally slipping around the back teeth. Lastly, the pointed end was solid and durable, with no bending or flexion.

Highlights

  • Fresh confident clean
  • Extra strong waxed floss
  • Doesn’t shred, break or sag
  • Mint flavor
  • Grip for easy handling
  • Sturdy pick to clean between teeth

Results

Effectiveness0

Comfort0

Taste0

Likability0

Total0

Best extra strong mint-flavored floss pick.

5. Best Travel | GUM Proxabrush Go-Betweens Cleaners

Best Travel-Ready

Top 6 Best Floss Picks | My Dental Advocate (7)

GUM Proxabrush Go-Betweens Interdental Brushes

$25.037

GUM Proxabrush Go-Betweens Interdental Brushes are manufactured with triangular bristles, which are 25% more effective at removing dental plaque from between teeth than conventional round bristles.

The nylon-coated wires are designed for comfortable cleaning around dental appliances, fixtures, crowns, implants, orthodontics, and other hard-to-reach places without scratching or causing galvanic shock.

Coated with a patented antibacterial agent for continuous protection throughout the 10-day recommended usage period. Protective travel caps are included to put in your pocket, purse or car for on-the-go usage.

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05/20/2024 08:05 am GMT

Dentist Review

GUM Proxabrush Go-Betweens Cleaners were exceptional at removing plaque without snapping through contacts between teeth.

It was comfortable to use; however, review the brush sizes before purchase, as they offer five different thicknesses.

The antibacterial brushes are a bonus and easily bend to navigate hard-to-reach areas.

Also, the ergonomic handle was highly comfortable and enjoyable to use. The proxabrush features a protective cap for easy transport in your pocket or purse.

Highlights

  • Go-betweens cleaners
  • Flexible handle for comfort and control
  • Triangular-shaped antibacterial bristles
  • “Removes up to 25% more plaque”
  • Bendable brush neck
  • 5 different brush sizes
  • Protective cap for easy transport

Results

Effectiveness0

Comfort0

Taste0

Likability0

Total0

Best on-the-go proxabrush with antibacterial bristles.

6. Best Comfort | GUM Soft-Picks Advanced

Best Comfort

Top 6 Best Floss Picks | My Dental Advocate (8)

GUM Advanced Dental Soft-Picks

$6.08

GUM Soft-Picks Advanced have flexible, comfortable bristles to gently remove plaque, dislodge food and massage gums.

The flexible synthetic rubber bristles fit easily between most teeth, removing dental plaque where gum disease often starts and toothbrushes alone cannot reach. The curved design of Soft-Picks Advanced allows the picks to easily reach any area of the mouth, including difficult to reach back teeth for a whole mouth clean!

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05/20/2024 07:55 am GMT

Dentist Review

GUM Soft-Picks Advanced are available in various sizes, so confirm your size before purchasing.

This product and GUM Proxabrush Go-Betweens Cleaners are exceptional for individuals with significant gaps between teeth, as string floss is inadequate for complete plaque removal.

The synthetic rubber bristles are comfortable on the gums and effective during use. Also, the handle is ergonomic and features grips to prevent slipping.

Highlights

  • Soft-picks advanced
  • Soft flexible bristles
  • Curved design
  • On-the-go case included
  • Whole mouth access
  • Long handle for control

Results

Effectiveness0

Comfort0

Taste0

Likability0

Total0

Best soft pick for sensitive gums.

Overall Champion | Plackers Micro Mint Dental Flossers*

Best Overall

Top 6 Best Floss Picks | My Dental Advocate (9)

Plackers Micro Mint Dental Flossers

$4.48

Keep it looking fresh with Plackers Micro Mint Flossers.

Easily remove those bits of ick with smooth Super Tuffloss, engineered not to stretch, shred or break and a built-in fold-out toothpick that folds away after use. The easy grip handle provides more control and comfort while cleaning between your teeth and gums.

Rely on Plackers to get the gunk out. Enjoy fresh breath with a delicious mint flavor that leaves your mouth with a fresh clean feeling.

Buy Now

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

05/20/2024 08:25 am GMT

Final Thoughts

Plackers Micro Mint Dental Flossers and GUM Proxabrush Go-Betweens Cleaners scored a perfect score.

However, Plackers is the overall winner for its innovative design, effectiveness, comfort, and ease of use. This is a great product, especially if you find string floss tedious and ineffective.

GUM Proxabrush Go-Betweens Cleaners is the best choice if you have more significant gaps between your teeth or gum loss, leading to food impaction. Also, they have five brush sizes available.

GUM Soft-Picks Advanced is also great for individuals with significant gaps between teeth when string floss is ineffective at plaque removal.

Lastly, GUM Professional Clean Floss Picks is an excellent choice if daily flossing has been an afterthought.

Final Rankings

  1. Plackers Micro Mint Dental Flossers 20/20
  2. GUM Proxabrush Go-Betweens Cleaners 20/20
  3. GUM Soft-Picks Advanced 19/20
  4. GUM Professional Clean Floss Picks 19/20
  5. The Humble Co. Floss Picks 16/20
  6. DenTek Advanced Clean Floss Picks 15/20

300+ Product Reviews

* My Dental Advocate product reviews are based on individual experience and your results with the products may vary.

Need a second opinion? We can help! Learn more. Knowledge is power when cultivating healthy dental habits. The more informed you are, the better positioned you'll be to prevent avoidable and potentially costly dental procedures for you and your family. Watch for future blog posts, where we'll continue sharing important information, product reviews and practical advice!

Top 6 Best Floss Picks | My Dental Advocate (2024)

FAQs

What type of floss will remove most plaque? ›

If possible, textured, thicker floss with a wax coating will be better at removing plaque before it hardens and becomes tartar. Ease of use: You need to consider your mouth's needs when looking at floss -- like if you have braces, wide gaps, close or crowded teeth, etc.

What type of dental floss is most effective? ›

Effective Plaque Removal: Nylon floss consists of multiple strands of nylon fibers woven together, creating a string that effectively removes plaque and food particles between the teeth and the gumline. Its ability to glide smoothly between teeth allows for thorough cleaning and helps maintain optimal oral hygiene.

What is the best floss pick for Invisalign? ›

Use Super Floss

Super floss is a type of dental floss that's specifically designed to be used with Invisalign attachments. It has a stiff end that makes it easier to thread through Invisalign wings and into the crevices between teeth.

What breaks down hard plaque on teeth? ›

Baking soda can effectively remove the plaque without damaging the outer covering of teeth— enamel. Baking soda is safe to use with no apparent side effects. Toothpaste containing baking soda is more potent against plaque than traditional toothpaste. Baking soda also prevents demineralization.

What removes plaque from teeth fast? ›

The best way to remove plaque and tartar is to practice good oral hygiene. The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste. They also recommend flossing once a day. Flossing first will remove pieces of food and plaque from between the teeth and hard-to-reach areas.

Which floss not to use? ›

PTFE and PFOA have some incredibly dangerous impacts on human health, so I recommend avoiding Teflon floss altogether. (The most common Teflon floss is Glide Pro-Health floss.) Many types of floss are coated in petroleum.

Is it better to floss before or after brushing? ›

Recent research suggests flossing before brushing your teeth is the way to go. This approach is superior for eliminating dental plaque on tooth surfaces and boosts the fluoride concentration in your mouth. Flossing before brushing helps strengthen your tooth enamel, making it more resistant to decay.

Is Waterpik better than flossing? ›

While it may not work as well as flossing in all cases, a Waterpik can still remove plaque and reduce gum disease. If you have braces, dental implants, or other dental work, a Waterpik may be especially helpful for cleaning hard-to-reach areas.

What are the disadvantages of using a Waterpik? ›

The rinsing action of Waterpiks may not be enough to remove plaque completely from the surface of your teeth. Some people like to use string floss first to scrape off and loosen plaque. A Waterpik can then be used to efficiently rinse out residue and plaque left behind.

How do I choose a flosser? ›

Look for a water flosser with adjustable pressure settings, so you can customize the pressure to your comfort level. Some models have several pressure options, which is helpful for people with sensitive teeth or gums. Additionally, consider the water pressure, as some models have more powerful streams than others.

Can you use a Waterpik too much? ›

While water flossers are generally considered safe for most people, there is some evidence to suggest that overuse or incorrect use can lead to gum damage. On the other hand, water flossers have been shown to improve gum health by removing plaque and reducing the risk of gum disease.

What floss picks do dentists recommend? ›

DenTek Triple Clean Floss Picks

These picks tout the American Dental Association's Seal of Acceptance and are effective for removing plaque, preventing gingivitis, and removing even the toughest bits of hidden food stuck between the teeth.

What is the best dental floss that doesn't shred? ›

PTFE Floss is made with polytetrafluorethylene, a material used to make gore-tex fabric. It's highly effective at sliding between tight teeth. Pros: Doesn't shred easily. Perhaps even better at getting between crowded teeth than waxed floss.

How do I choose the best dental floss? ›

Here are some points that might be helpful:
  1. Large gaps between your teeth? Try dental tape or Super Floss.
  2. Not much space between your teeth? You may find that a waxed floss is easier to slide into those tight spaces.
  3. Want less mess? Look for disposable flossers or floss in pre-measured strands.
  4. Braces or bridges?

What is the best thing to remove hard plaque? ›

Here's how to remove plaque from teeth:
  • Floss daily. Floss once a day with dental floss to get rid of food and plaque stuck between teeth. ...
  • Brush twice a day. ...
  • Chew sugarless gum. ...
  • Choose healthy foods. ...
  • See your dentist. ...
  • Use mouthwash.

Can you floss out hard plaque? ›

Tartar is hardened dental plaque. Without proper oral hygiene, tartar can build up on your teeth and lead to gum disease and other oral health issues. Only a dentist or hygienist can remove tartar. You can't remove it with brushing and flossing alone.

What is the best tool for removing plaque from teeth? ›

When you visit your dentist's office for a checkup and cleaning, your dental hygienist typically uses specialized tools to remove hardened debris and food from your teeth. Among these dental tools is a scaler or curette – known as a plaque scraper or ultrasonic tooth cleaner – to remove the plaque and tartar buildup.

Can you floss everyday but still have plaque? ›

Even if you brush and floss daily, there's still potential for calculus and tartar buildup. Calculus is hardened plaque made from a combination of protein materials in our mouth such as saliva.

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