Reviewed by Dr. Alan Baughman, DMD, MBA
Is water flossing better than string floss? The answer is: it depends! Both flossing methods have unique benefits and drawbacks, which we will explore in this article.
By understanding the pros and cons of each, you can make an informed decision on which tool is right for you and your oral health.
Table of Contents
- Why Is Flossing Important?
- What Is a Water Flosser?
- Are Water Flossers Better Than String Floss?
- Pros and Cons of Water Flossers
- Pros
- Cons
- Pros and Cons of String Floss
- Pros
- Cons
- How To Use a Water Flosser
- Pro Tip: Combine Both Methods
- If I Get One, What’s the Best Water Flosser?
- Clearwater Dentistry: Your Trusted Family Dentist in Greeley, CO
- Water Flossing Frequently Asked Questions
Why Is Flossing Important?
While brushing our teeth is an essential part of our daily routine, it alone is not enough to keep our teeth and gums healthy.
Interdental cleaning, or flossing, helps to remove plaque from the tooth surface before it hardens into tartar, a substance that can only be removed by a dental professional. Regularly cleaning these hard-to-reach spaces helps to prevent conditions like periodontal disease and gingivitis.
Key Takeaway
Regular use of any flossing tool is vital in preventing oral diseases and promoting proper dental hygiene. Water flossers are an excellent option if you have braces or implants or if you struggle with traditional flossing techniques. Choosing between a water flosser and string floss depends on personal preference, lifestyle, and specific oral health needs.
What Is a Water Flosser?
A water flosser, also known as an oral irrigator, is a device that uses a stream of water to clean between your teeth and along the gum line. It typically consists of a motor, a reservoir for holding water, and a handheld nozzle with adjustable pressure settings.
Are Water Flossers Better Than String Floss?
People who use water picks report they work really well to remove plaque and leave their mouth feeling super fresh. Research has shown that a water pick can eliminate up to 29% more plaque than string floss.
To key to maintaining oral hygiene and staying cavity-free is consistency! Choose a method that you will use consistently and that works for you.
Pros and Cons of Water Flossers
Water flossers are an excellent alternative to traditional string floss. Here are some pros and cons of water picking.
Pros
- Ideal for people with braces, implants, or crowns, as it can reach those hard-to-clean areas.
- Easy to use if you have dexterity issues or a sensitive gag reflex.
- Can be more gentle on the gums compared to string floss.
- Can help reduce gingival bleeding and inflammation for individuals with gum disease.
- Can be used with lukewarm water or mouthwash for added benefits.
Cons
- May not remove microscopic plaque and bacteria that can accumulate between teeth.
- More expensive than traditional floss.
- Requires electricity and may not be as portable as string floss.
- Takes up more counter space in the bathroom.
Pros and Cons of String Floss
Traditional flossing involves using a thin thread to clean between teeth. Here are some pros and cons associated with string floss:
Pros
- Economical and widely available.
- Smaller and more portable than water flossers.
- Can easily reach tight spaces between teeth.
Cons
- Can be challenging to use for people with limited dexterity or braces.
- May cause bleeding and discomfort if not used properly.
- Requires more time and effort compared to water flossers.
How To Use a Water Flosser
Water flossers are easy to operate.
- Choose and connect the appropriate tip.
- Fill the water reservoir with lukewarm water or connect it directly to a water source.
- Adjust the pressure settings according to your comfort level.
- Position the tip inside your mouth.
- Turn it on and direct the water stream between your teeth and along the gum line for 1-2 minutes.
- When done, empty the extra water and clean it so it’s ready for the next use.
Pro Tip: Combine Both Methods
If you want to take your dental care to the next level, incorporate regular flossing and water picking into your routine.
Start by using traditional string floss to dislodge food particles and then follow up with a water flosser to remove any remaining debris and bacteria. You’ll achieve a more thorough clean and promote better gum health by doing both.
If I Get One, What’s the Best Water Flosser?
Consider your lifestyle when searching for a water flosser. For instance, a compact and cordless water flosser would be the perfect fit if you frequently travel. If the water flosser is intended for shared family use, opt for a model with multiple tips, allowing each member to have their own.
Many water flossers offer various pressure settings so each family member can customize the cleaning intensity to their comfort level.
Clearwater Dentistry: Your Trusted Family Dentist in Greeley, CO
Choosing between a water flosser and traditional string floss is a matter of personal preference and oral health needs. Both methods help to keep your teeth healthy and prevent cavities and gum disease. It’s not about the tool you use but how often you use it that makes the real difference.
At Clearwater Dentistry, we understand that each mouth is unique and requires a personalized approach. Our experienced dental team can provide you with advice and guidance on the best flossing method suited to your needs. We are committed to helping you maintain a healthy smile.
If you are searching for a dentist in Greeley, CO, call (970) 515-3550 or complete the online booking form.
Water Flossing Frequently Asked Questions
Can you use a water flosser with braces?
Yes, water flossers are particularly beneficial for individuals with braces. They can effectively clean around wires and brackets, reducing the risk of plaque buildup and tooth decay.
Can you put mouthwash in a water flosser?
Yes, you can use mouthwash in a water flosser. Read the manufacturer’s instructions before using anything but water.
Do you need to floss as well if you use a Waterpik?
Dental experts recommend a combination of string flossing and water flossing. Water flossing effectively eliminates larger pieces of debris, whereas string floss targets finer particles and bacteria.
If you’re not using string floss regularly or at all, incorporating a water flosser into your oral hygiene routine will significantly improve your oral health.
If you are searching for a ‘family dentist near me,’ contact Clearwater Dentistry.
Reviewed by Dr. Alan Baughman, DMD, MBA
Is water flossing better than string floss? The answer is: it depends! Both flossing methods have unique benefits and drawbacks, which we will explore in this article.
By understanding the pros and cons of each, you can make an informed decision on which tool is right for you and your oral health.
Table of Contents
- Why Is Flossing Important?
- What Is a Water Flosser?
- Are Water Flossers Better Than String Floss?
- Pros and Cons of Water Flossers
- Pros
- Cons
- Pros and Cons of String Floss
- Pros
- Cons
- How To Use a Water Flosser
- Pro Tip: Combine Both Methods
- If I Get One, What’s the Best Water Flosser?
- Clearwater Dentistry: Your Trusted Family Dentist in Greeley, CO
- Water Flossing Frequently Asked Questions
Why Is Flossing Important?
While brushing our teeth is an essential part of our daily routine, it alone is not enough to keep our teeth and gums healthy.
Interdental cleaning, or flossing, helps to remove plaque from the tooth surface before it hardens into tartar, a substance that can only be removed by a dental professional. Regularly cleaning these hard-to-reach spaces helps to prevent conditions like periodontal disease and gingivitis.
Key Takeaway
Regular use of any flossing tool is vital in preventing oral diseases and promoting proper dental hygiene. Water flossers are an excellent option if you have braces or implants or if you struggle with traditional flossing techniques. Choosing between a water flosser and string floss depends on personal preference, lifestyle, and specific oral health needs.
What Is a Water Flosser?
A water flosser, also known as an oral irrigator, is a device that uses a stream of water to clean between your teeth and along the gum line. It typically consists of a motor, a reservoir for holding water, and a handheld nozzle with adjustable pressure settings.
Are Water Flossers Better Than String Floss?
People who use water picks report they work really well to remove plaque and leave their mouth feeling super fresh. Research has shown that a water pick can eliminate up to 29% more plaque than string floss.
To key to maintaining oral hygiene and staying cavity-free is consistency! Choose a method that you will use consistently and that works for you.
Pros and Cons of Water Flossers
Water flossers are an excellent alternative to traditional string floss. Here are some pros and cons of water picking.
Pros
- Ideal for people with braces, implants, or crowns, as it can reach those hard-to-clean areas.
- Easy to use if you have dexterity issues or a sensitive gag reflex.
- Can be more gentle on the gums compared to string floss.
- Can help reduce gingival bleeding and inflammation for individuals with gum disease.
- Can be used with lukewarm water or mouthwash for added benefits.
Cons
- May not remove microscopic plaque and bacteria that can accumulate between teeth.
- More expensive than traditional floss.
- Requires electricity and may not be as portable as string floss.
- Takes up more counter space in the bathroom.
Pros and Cons of String Floss
Traditional flossing involves using a thin thread to clean between teeth. Here are some pros and cons associated with string floss:
Pros
- Economical and widely available.
- Smaller and more portable than water flossers.
- Can easily reach tight spaces between teeth.
Cons
- Can be challenging to use for people with limited dexterity or braces.
- May cause bleeding and discomfort if not used properly.
- Requires more time and effort compared to water flossers.
How To Use a Water Flosser
Water flossers are easy to operate.
- Choose and connect the appropriate tip.
- Fill the water reservoir with lukewarm water or connect it directly to a water source.
- Adjust the pressure settings according to your comfort level.
- Position the tip inside your mouth.
- Turn it on and direct the water stream between your teeth and along the gum line for 1-2 minutes.
- When done, empty the extra water and clean it so it’s ready for the next use.
Pro Tip: Combine Both Methods
If you want to take your dental care to the next level, incorporate regular flossing and water picking into your routine.
Start by using traditional string floss to dislodge food particles and then follow up with a water flosser to remove any remaining debris and bacteria. You’ll achieve a more thorough clean and promote better gum health by doing both.
If I Get One, What’s the Best Water Flosser?
Consider your lifestyle when searching for a water flosser. For instance, a compact and cordless water flosser would be the perfect fit if you frequently travel. If the water flosser is intended for shared family use, opt for a model with multiple tips, allowing each member to have their own.
Many water flossers offer various pressure settings so each family member can customize the cleaning intensity to their comfort level.
Clearwater Dentistry: Your Trusted Family Dentist in Greeley, CO
Choosing between a water flosser and traditional string floss is a matter of personal preference and oral health needs. Both methods help to keep your teeth healthy and prevent cavities and gum disease. It’s not about the tool you use but how often you use it that makes the real difference.
At Clearwater Dentistry, we understand that each mouth is unique and requires a personalized approach. Our experienced dental team can provide you with advice and guidance on the best flossing method suited to your needs. We are committed to helping you maintain a healthy smile.
If you are searching for a dentist in Greeley, CO, call (970) 515-3550 or complete the online booking form.
Water Flossing Frequently Asked Questions
Can you use a water flosser with braces?
Yes, water flossers are particularly beneficial for individuals with braces. They can effectively clean around wires and brackets, reducing the risk of plaque buildup and tooth decay.
Can you put mouthwash in a water flosser?
Yes, you can use mouthwash in a water flosser. Read the manufacturer’s instructions before using anything but water.
Do you need to floss as well if you use a Waterpik?
Dental experts recommend a combination of string flossing and water flossing. Water flossing effectively eliminates larger pieces of debris, whereas string floss targets finer particles and bacteria.
If you’re not using string floss regularly or at all, incorporating a water flosser into your oral hygiene routine will significantly improve your oral health.
If you are searching for a ‘family dentist near me,’ contact Clearwater Dentistry.
