Dental Health

Are Waterpiks Better Than Dental Floss?

August 15, 2024

Effective plaque removal is an essential part of any oral hygiene routine, but brushing alone can’t remove all plaque. Flossing is critical to clean those tight spaces between the teeth and prevent tooth decay and gum disease.

Traditional dental floss has been the go-to tool for interdental cleaning, but in recent years, water flossers—commonly known as Waterpiks—have gained popularity as a modern alternative.

Are Waterpiks better than dental floss? Here, we look at each option for removing plaque and which is more effective.

The Basics of Flossing and Water Flossing

Dental floss is a thin, flexible piece of string designed to remove food and plaque from between your teeth and below the gumline. Traditional flossing requires manually forcing the floss between each set of teeth and gently scraping the sides of teeth to remove plaque.

Water flossers utilize a pressurized stream of water to dislodge food particles and plaque between teeth and along the gumline. Using a nozzle, people can aim the water between their teeth, where it will clean away plaque—no string needed.

Effectiveness in Plaque Removal

Research shows that water flossers are as effective as regular floss in removing plaque. In fact, some research shows that using a Waterpik is significantly more effective than using string floss when it comes to removing plaque [1]. This means whether you choose to use traditional floss or water floss, you can still get a squeaky-clean smile.

Ease of Use

Using dental floss can be a cumbersome task, especially for those with limited dexterity or tight spacing between teeth. Manual flossing requires practice, and improper flossing can lead to gum irritation or even damage.

For people with braces, fixed dental prostheses, or limited dexterity, water flossers may be easier to use and provide more effective cleaning [2].

Water flossers are generally considered easier to use, as they don’t require intricate hand movements or technique. With just a push of a button, people can efficiently target hard-to-reach areas. This ease of use can lead to increased compliance, especially among those who dislike traditional flossing.

Comfort Level

One of the common complaints about dental floss is that it can cause discomfort, particularly if users are unfamiliar with the proper technique or have sensitive gums. Water flossers tend to be gentler, providing a massaging effect on the gums and often making flossing feel more comfortable [3].

Cost and Maintenance

When it comes to cost, dental floss is less expensive. A roll of dental floss can be purchased for a few dollars and lasts several weeks to months. On the other hand, Waterpiks require a higher upfront investment, often costing between $50 to $100 or more. Additionally, water flossers require upkeep, including regular cleaning and the occasional replacement of parts such as the water pressure tip.

Which Is Better?

Both Waterpiks and dental floss have their advantages and can be effective for maintaining oral health. A Waterpik may be the better choice for people with braces, gum disease, or those who find traditional flossing challenging. Conversely, dental floss is inexpensive, widely available, and effective when used correctly.

No matter which one you choose to use, be sure to floss once a day to maintain your oral health, reduce your risk of gum disease, and prevent bad breath. And don’t forget to follow up with your dentist for bi-annual cleanings and check-ups!