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Waterpik vs. Flossing: which is better?

What is a Waterpik?

Waterpiks, also known as water flossers, dental water jets, or oral irrigators, are made up of a motor with a pump, a water reservoir, and a water flosser tip. A Waterpik works by having a stream of pressurized water flow out of the water flosser tip to remove food debris, bacteria, and plaque. It works to clean in between teeth, along and under the gumline, and other hard-to-reach places.

However, it is important to remember that a water flosser is not a replacement for brushing or flossing.

How to use a Waterpik?

The reservoir of the water flosser should be filled with lukewarm water. A Waterpik is best used when starting in the back of your mouth. The areas to pay most attention to are the gum line, in between the teeth, and the tops of your teeth.

Does water flossing work as well as regular flossing?

Waterpiks do remove some plaque; working towards preventing gum, disease, bleeding, and cavities. There has been some research that supports that traditional dental floss does a better job of removing plaque. Dental floss allows you to scrape the sides of the teeth.

Pros of a Waterpik

• Can reach those tricky spots to get, such as under gumlines
• Removes food, bacteria, and plaque from tight spaces between teeth
• Can be a great tool for people who have braces, non-removable bridgework, crowns, or implants
• If flossing is difficult due to arthritis, water flossing may be beneficial
  
  

Cons of a Waterpik

• More expensive than traditional floss
• Does not remove plaque as well as traditional floss
  
  

There is personal preference when it comes to manual flossing and water flossing. Most importantly, you should find a dental care routine that you will do every day. Also, be sure to talk to your dentist to see what they recommend for you. In addition to a good daily dental care routine, bi-annual dental cleanings are necessary to maintaining good dental health. Click here to get a quote on dental insurance that covers these cleanings.