Alternatives to Dental Floss

The American Dental Association recommends flossing twice a day to extract food and bacteria between your teeth, thereby helping prevent dental decay. For reasons from arthritis to blood disorders, flossing the traditional way isn't always a possibility. Fortunately, there are several alternatives of equal or somewhat lesser efficacy than flossing for those with floss-prohibitive circumstances or conditions.

Water Irrigation

• A water pick uses a small but powerful stream of water to reach less accessible regions.

  A water pick or dental irrigator uses a high-pressure stream of water to rinse away food in between teeth and around gums. A 2006 study published in the Journal of American Dental Association found that individuals who used the an irrigation device 1mm from the subgingival gum line significantly reduced the presence of periodontal bacteria compared to those who only brushed. Particularly for sufferers of periodontal disease or those with sensitive gums, the water pick device is especially useful because the water stream causes less pain than the harsh motion of flossing. You may also find a water pick helpful if dental braces shred or tear regular dental floss. The same 2006 study found that using anti-bacterial mouthwash instead of water also increased the efficacy of irrigation by eliminating more bacteria than water alone. Check with your dentist for recommendations on quality water picks.

Antibacterial Mouthwash

• Antibacterial mouthwash isn't as effective at removing food in between your teeth, but it's certainly better than only brushing. Look for a mouthwash containing essential oils and fluoride in addition to antibacterial agents which will strengthen your teeth. According to a 2006 study, mouth rinses containing essential oils prevented inflammation and gingivitis more effectively than those without. Until recently, the alcohol content in most antibacterial mouthwashes caused a burning, stinging sensation throughout the entire mouth. Today, a variety of alcohol-free antibacterial mouthwashes makes it easier to complete the recommended 30 seconds of swishing without tears streaming down your cheeks.

Interdental Brushes

• An interdental brush replacement head.

  Interdental brushes look like miniature baby-bottle brush cleaners, enabling them to access the tiny crevices between your teeth. The bristles of an interdental brush attach to a short, thin metal wire with extra-soft, flexible bristles to probe and spin in between teeth without pain or irritation. According to the American Dental Association, using antibacterial mouthwash after interdental brushing enhances the efficacy of both flossing alternatives.

Power Flossers

• A 2006 study in the Journal of the American Dental Association mechanical flossing was a highly effective alternative to manual flossing but could be too harsh for those with advanced periodontal disease. Sometimes called mechanical flossers, these devices require you to only insert the floss in between your teeth and press the power button. Upon activation, the device vibrates in horizontal and vertical motions, moving the floss through your teeth.