As with many things in life, it sometimes takes a little bit of trial and error for people to figure out what works best for them. With so many different products to choose from, making a choice can be overwhelming.

The reality is, the type of floss a person chooses is not really that important. What matters is actually flossing at least once each day.

Research conducted by the Journal of Clinical Dentistry indicates that an electric flosser is no safer or more effective than standard types of floss and tips for flossing. What differentiates the various devices used to clean the tight crevices around a person’s teeth is how comfortable the process is.

Older people are more likely to have problems manipulating their fingers to floss their teeth, so they could benefit from an electric flosser that does all the work for them. Older children and teenagers tend to find electric flossers to be more fun, and that is something parents should consider if they are still trying to instill proper dental hygiene habits in their children.

Dentists recommend starting young kids off with regular flossers, but as they grow older, they should be allowed to transition to an electric flosser if that is their preference.