If you’re searching for ways to enhance your oral hygiene routine, you’ve likely come across the Waterpik™ device.
A Waterpik is a popular brand of water flosser that emits a pressurized stream of water to target plaque, debris, food particles, and bacteria. But is this a good alternative to traditional flossing for gum health?
Let’s find out!
Do water flossers work?
According to research published in Dentistry Journal, water flossers have proven to reduce plaque, gum inflammation, and bleeding. These devices are a highly-effective supplement to your oral hygiene routine, and they can play a crucial role in maintaining healthy gums.
Water Flosser Vs. Traditional Flossing
Can a water flosser be as effective as traditional string flossing when it comes to gum health?
Clinical research shows that the Waterpik water flosser is 29% more effective than string floss for overall plaque removal and 29% more effective for cleaning approximal surfaces (the spaces between your teeth.)
Does a Waterpik replace flossing?
While some health organizations recommend water flossing over string flossing, others, like the Mayo Clinic and WebMD, suggest that water flossers are not a complete substitute for dental floss. Both methods have their own benefits and can complement each other.
If you aren’t sure whether water flossing is sufficient for your oral hygiene routine, ask your dentist during your next cleaning or ask your PHC periodontist at your next visit!
Based on your current oral hygiene and any risk factors you have, your doctor may advise that you supplement your routine with a water flosser rather than substitute it entirely.
How to Use a Waterpik Water Flosser
Using a Waterpik water flosser is simple and can be easily integrated into your daily routine. Here are the basic steps:
- Fill the Water Flosser reservoir with lukewarm water and place it firmly on the base.
- Insert the flosser tip and click into the handle.
- Adjust the pressure control (start at low pressure), lean over the sink, and place the tip in your mouth.
- Turn the unit on. Close your lips to prevent splashing and let water flow from your mouth into the sink.
- Starting with the back teeth, aim the tip at the gumline. Pause and lightly brush the area between the teeth and along the gumline.
- Proceed to the next tooth until your whole smile is clean!
Final verdict: Is a Waterpik better than flossing?
The verdict is in – a Waterpik can be more effective than string floss for some people, especially for reducing gum bleeding and inflammation. However, it all comes down to your preferences and consistency. Is water flossing easier for you than string flossing? Are you more likely to floss consistently if you use a water flosser?
Either way, the most important thing is that you floss regularly, regardless of the technique you choose. Flossing helps to prevent gum disease, keeps bad breath at bay, and supports overall oral health.
Still have questions about flossing?
We have answers! Please don’t hesitate to reach out to us at any time. Dr. Jessica Stilley, Dr. Armita Mashkouri and Dr. Camille Medina are your highly-experienced periodontal specialists in New Port Richey / Trinity and Tampa / Carrollwood.
Looking for a “periodontist near me”? Our team is here to help you keep your natural teeth and healthy gums for a lifetime, or help you restore your teeth and gums.
Schedule your appointment today!
Our Tampa/Carrollwood periodontist office near you is conveniently located at 1741 W Fletcher Ave, Tampa, FL 33612, in Lake Magdalene and Greater Carrollwood, near Rosewood Center shopping mall and Hillel Academy of Tampa, just 10 minutes from University of South Florida.
Our New Port Richey / Trinity periodontist office near you is conveniently located at 5149 Deer Park Dr., New Port Richey, Florida 34653, next to MV Endodontics, near the beautiful James E. Grey Preserve and the popular Publix Super Market at River Crossing.
