String, water, or electric? Meet your flossing options

Cleaning between your teeth is one of the most worthwhile habits you can build — and there are more ways to do it than ever. The good news is that the best option is the one you'll actually use consistently.

String floss: simple and portable

Plain string floss is inexpensive, takes up no space, and works well with a little technique. It's a dependable default, especially for travel or a quick routine. The trade-off is that it asks for a bit of practice to use comfortably.

Water flossers: a different kind of clean

A water flosser like the Waterpik Aquarius uses a targeted stream of water to clean between teeth and along the gumline. It can feel easier for people who find string floss fiddly, and it's a common choice for anyone with braces, bridges, or implants. It does need counter space and water.

Electric string flossers

The Flaus Electric Flosser is a newer idea: it vibrates string floss to help it glide between teeth. It's distinct from a water flosser — it's still string, just motorized. If you like the idea of string floss but find it awkward, it's worth a look.

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