You’ll Actually Look Forward to Flossing, Thanks to These Easy-to-Use Floss Picks (2024)

Flossing tends to be the one dental ritual that most often gets tossed to the wayside in an oral care regimen. Even though we know it’s an important part of dental and gum health, it’s tempting to skip it, particularly when you have to deal with wrangling traditional floss, but with floss picks, the hard work—aka getting in between each tooth and the nooks and crannies of your mouth—is done for you.

According to double board-certified periodontist and nutritionist Dr. Sanda Moldovan, MS, DDS, using string floss can be difficult, especially for people with bigger hands or smaller mouths. “Floss picks are easy to use, particularly when reaching in between the molars,” she explains. “Plus, most people don’t floss correctly, so floss picks make it much easier to get an effective floss.”

We conducted hours of research on the best floss picks, evaluating their material, ergonomic handles, and thread thickness. After consulting with cosmetic dentist Dr. Lawrence Fung, DDS, and Dr. Moldovan, we landed on these top picks. (See what we did there?)

Our Top Picks

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What We Like

  • Textured pick to fight plaque in between teeth

  • Pick doubles as tongue scraper

  • Approved by the American Dental Association

  • Has a minty flavor that tastes refreshing

What to Consider

  • Some might not want fluoride

Material: Floss, bioplastic | Number of picks in package: 20, 90, or 150

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. As an added benefit, each one has a fluoride coating for enamel protection and a minty flavor for a refreshing fresh-breath flossing session. They’re also super sturdy and won’t snap, given they double up as a tongue scraper as well. The micro-textured floss (meaning it grants a ribbed grip for more control) has a silky feel, making it especially easy to use between very tight teeth or if you have braces.

What We Like

  • Dual line of floss

  • Hidden pick

  • Easy-grip handle

What to Consider

  • Only comes in one flavor

Material: Nylon floss, plastic | Number of picks in package: 75, 150, and 300

There are two strands of floss in this option, which is double the reassurance that it’ll help to remove every last bit of stuck food and plaque. They’re made to stretch rather than shred or snap, and we also appreciate that the pick is hidden inside the handle for easy maneuvering once flossing is in motion, so you don’t have to worry about poking yourself.

What We Like

  • Made of corn and wheat straw instead of plastic

  • Sturdy construction

  • Expert-recommended

What to Consider

  • Ends can be very pointy

Material: Floss, corn, and wheat straw | Number of picks in package: 200

Dr. Moldovan says that this eco-friendly option is one of her favorite floss picks. They’re made from a compostable combo of corn and wheat straw and are mint-flavored too. Even the exterior packaging is a kraft paper box that’s reusable and recyclable. These durable and natural flossing picks’ long handle allows us to reach our rear teeth comfortably as well. Just keep in mind that the ends can be very pointy, so be careful when reaching into the bag.

What We Like

  • Plastic-free

  • Dual line of floss

  • Angled handle convenient for individuals with big hands

What to Consider

  • Not compostable

Material: Nylon, cornstarch | Number of picks in package: 200

For those trying to minimize their plastic consumption, these flossing picks are an excellent choice. The eco-friendly option features a handle made from corn starch and nylon-based. The picks are housed in a paper package to further eliminate waste. We love that they are ergonomically smart for those with big hands and the fact that the double thread is capable of resisting tight teeth while effectively sloughing off debris and plaque.

What We Like

  • A pack of 90 costs $3

  • Features built-in foldaway pick

  • Shred-resistant floss

What to Consider

  • Floss thread could be longer

Material: Floss, plastic | Number of picks in package: 90, 160

A super affordable choice, these flossing picks are shred-resistant and come with a built-in pick on the handle that won’t poke you. The thread itself could be longer if you ask us, but still, it manages to glide gently within the narrow gaps of our teeth. They are a functional choice for flossing on the go, and get all the gunk out necessary for confident close-up in-person conversations.

What We Like

  • Works on multiple areas of the mouth

  • Long handle for easy gripping

  • Gentle yet effective

What to Consider

  • Can break if handled too aggressively

Material: Synthetic rubber, plastic | Number of picks in package: 60, 90

Rather than featuring the traditional type of floss thread, these picks have flexible synthetic rubber bristles on the end. They work equally well in between teeth, the outer surface of teeth, and along the gum line. (All common areas where plaque tends to build up.) Dr. Moldovan is a fan, citing that they remove food and plaque and are recommended for people with gum disease or bleeding gums.

What We Like

  • Infused with Oral-B Scope Outlast mouthwash in mint flavor for extra-clean feeling

  • Glides smoothly and doesn't snag

  • Great for on-the-go use

What to Consider

  • Could be made of stronger material

Material: Floss, plastic | Number of picks in package: 75, 150

We especially love these for on-the-go use since they combine the benefits of a floss pick with the refreshing flavor of mouthwash (they’re infused with Scope Outlast). Plus, the floss itself is silky smooth, gliding easily back and forth between interdental spaces. These flossing picks are a bit fragile though and may snap during a flossing session. Because of this, you should ecpect to use up to two or three picks per oral care routine.

What We Like

  • Angled brush head gets into tight spots

  • Can be used on natural teeth and dental implants

  • Toothbrush-floss hybrid tool

What to Consider

  • Not great for using on the go

Material: Plastic, plastic-coated wire | Number of picks in package: 6

“I prefer this floss pick because of the long handle that can reach in-between places that we can't usually get to in the back of our teeth,” says Dr. Molodvan of one of her top choices. Indeed, it’s more of a toothbrush slash floss pick hybrid, helping to remove food and break down plaque, especially in the gaps of the teeth. Each pack comes with a variety of brush lengths to comfortably reach the shape, size, and space in between your teeth, and gently clean away the concerns that contribute to gum inflammation and cavities.

What We Like

  • Replaces the use of 180 single-use floss picks

  • The dispensing case features a mirror

  • Sustainable option

What to Consider

  • Case is not water-resistant

Material: Polyester floss, plastic | Number of picks in package: 1 reusable pick handle with 3-month supply of dispensable floss

If you want to reap the benefits of a floss pick but don’t love that they’re not the most sustainable, this is the ideal reusable alternative. The compact case (which features a convenient little mirror!) comes with a thick, easily controllable handle and a preloaded mint floss refill pod. Simply pop in a new piece of floss every time, and you’re good to go. One refill pod replaces 180 single-use plastic picks and each will last up to three months. Note that the case itself isn’t water resistant, so cleaning the case with warm water is the most extraneous type of upkeep involved.

What We Like

  • Ideal for tight spaces like in between brackets on braces

  • Unflavored

  • Resistant to breaking or getting stuck

What to Consider

  • Pack count could be higher

Material: Floss, plastic | Number of picks in package: 36

When you have braces or very tightly spaced teeth, you need a flosser that can get in between the grooves and arched wires to pick out debris. These picks have thin yet tough floss that slides between braces and your teeth, as well as a slim handle for a flexible grip and one that boasts the brand’s FlipPick feature. As a bonus, this pack comes with a travel pouch you can tote in your bag (or bookbag). Our only gripe is that the pack contains only 36 flossers; we’d love it if you could get more.

What We Like

  • Great for travel

  • Comes in multiple pack sizes

  • Gentle on teeth

What to Consider

  • Can break over time

Material: Plastic | Number of picks in package: 40

Hands-free flossing? Call it innovation. Though there's a bit of a learning curve with this method, once you get the hang of the floss you'll love using these tiny little gadgets at work or during those moments when you need to get that speck of food out of your teeth ASAP and you don’t have a mirror on hand. The floss thread is unflavored, and a particularly gentle option that still gets into all the nooks and crannies of the molars and teeth without cutting your tongue.

What We Like

  • Starter packs available for adults and kids

  • Allows you to achieve “C Shape” flossing technique

  • Features reusable handles

What to Consider

  • Limited picks per package

Material: Plastic | Number of picks in package: 10 flossing picks

Traditional flossing picks have handles that can be hard to hold if you have big or unstable hands, leading to an uncomfortable poke in the inner cheeks. GumChucks flossing picks, on the other hand, feature two independent handles and a set of disposable flossing tips so that you’re actually in control of the entire flossing experience.

What We Like

  • Made of plant-based materials

  • Plastic-free

  • Dual thread

What to Consider

  • Sharp pick handle

Material: Nylon | Number of picks in package: 50

Not only is it satisfying to visualize the gunk you’re getting out of your teeth, but these black charcoal-infused flossers make for a floss that is compatible with the teeth’s natural enamel. The nylon threads are doubled up for a durable floss in tight interdental spaces. Plus, the handle is biodegradable.

What We Like

  • Comes with clear, compact case

  • Prevents contamination of floss picks while traveling

  • Promotes organization

What to Consider

  • Flavor could be stronger

Material: Polymer scribed material | Number of picks in package: 60

While flossing picks are great on the go, have you ever stopped to think about how gross it is to use one that’s been in a handbag full of germs? Familife’s floss picks come in a perfect clear compact case that holds up to 60 picks, so you won’t have to worry about where to put them when you leave the house. The brand says they have mint flavor, but we found them to have little to no taste. Nevertheless, we appreciate that this is an organized, reliable option that keeps things sanitary and tucked away, preventing accidental finger pricks.

What We Like

  • Recyclable mint floss threads

  • 2-month battery life

  • Massages your gums

What to Consider

  • Has to be charged

Material: Tape floss | Number of picks in package: 45 floss heads

This electric flossing device emits sonic vibrations that mimic those of an electric toothbrush, targeting plaque head-on. The floss-assist motion comes with three speed options to adjust to your preferred comfort and elevate the concept of the classic flossing pick. While you will have to charge this flossing device, it has a battery life that can last up to two months.

What to Look for in a Floss Pick

  • Floss Thickness: Choose the floss thickness based on the space between your teeth. If you have bigger gaps, a thicker floss may work best. For smaller tooth gaps, a thinner floss will work in your favor. There are both thick and thin floss picks available on the market, which will help you successfully reach and clean the interdental areas in your mouth based on your individualistic teeth anatomy.
  • Size: Floss picks should be small and easy to travel with. Their size will allow you to bring them on the go and help you maneuver them in your mouth effortlessly. Floss picks also feature handles with a foldout option to save space, while others come with various handle lengths depending on how far into the mouth you look to go (just in case you need to floss your molars too!).
  • String Type: You'll find floss picks with single or dual-line string, which can help remove plaque and debris lodged between teeth. Ultimately, the number of strings for you depends on your own personal preference and the space between your teeth. If your teeth are tightly spaced, you may want a single string option that offers a good glide to slide between teeth easily. If you have teeth spaced farther apart or tend to need more than one round of flossing, a dual-line floss might suit you best.

FAQ

  • Is it okay to reuse floss picks?

    Since you can't properly clean a floss pick, they should not be reused. When you reuse a floss pick, it may add old bacteria, plaque, and other dirt back into your mouth.

  • How often should you change your floss picks?

    You should use a new pick every time you floss and throw it out immediately after use.

  • Is it better to floss twice a day?

    Flossing twice a day may be better for you. After you floss, you typically remove dirt, debris, and plaque from between your teeth, so flossing twice a day won't hurt.

  • Is it possible for floss to damage teeth?

    Yes, it is possible to overdo it. “If you apply too much pressure, you can cause trauma to the gums,” cautions Dr. Fung. Be careful not to push too hard between the grooves of the teeth—this can cause lacerations or irreversible gum recessions.

Why Trust Byrdie

Byrdie contributor Melanie Rud has over a decade of experience in the beauty industry, writing for some of the biggest magazines and websites out there. After resolving to floss daily (and continuously falling short of her goal), she finally realized that floss picks are the way to get her to do so.

Chelsea Avila is a commerce contributor at Byrdie who reports on the beauty, fashion, and wellness market. For this oral care article, Chelsea conducted further investigation into what makes the best flossing picks worthy of swapping out traditional string floss.

Byrdie consulted a cosmetic dentist and board-certified periodontist:

  • Dr. Lawrence Fung, DDS is a cosmetic dentist and founder of Silicon Beach Dental in Culver City, California. He is also the clinical instructor at the Center for Esthetic Dentistry at UCLA.
  • Dr. Sanda Moldovan, MS, DDS is a double board-certified periodontist and nutritionist focusing on biological dentistry with a dental practice in Beverly Hills. She is also the founder of Orasana, an all-natural oral health and wellness brand that understands the connection between the mouth and the overall health of the body.

According to our Diversity Pledge, 15% of products in our newly-published market roundups will feature Black-owned and/or Black-founded brands. At the time of publishing, we were not able to find enough floss picks from a Black-owned and/or Black-founded business to meet this percentage. If you know of one we should consider, please email us at contact@byrdie.com, and we will evaluate the product ASAP

You’ll Actually Look Forward to Flossing, Thanks to These Easy-to-Use Floss Picks (2024)
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