A water flosser is a type of flossing tool that shoots a stream of water between your teeth to remove plaque. For some people, water flossers can be easier to use than string floss. Also, research shows that using a water flosser is “significantly more effective” than using string floss when it comes to removing plaque [1].
Whether you’ve made the switch to a water flosser or are considering getting one, here are a few tips for making your water flosser as effective as possible!
Choose the Tip That’s Right for You
Depending on the brand of water flosser you choose, you have the option of choosing several different tips to control how the water comes out. Some tips are designed specifically for orthodontic devices or gum disease to help make the water flosser more effective for your unique smile.
When searching for water flossers, evaluate the tip options or ask your dentist which tip they would recommend for you. The tip you choose can be instrumental in making your water flosser as impactful as possible when it comes to removing plaque and cleaning around orthodontic appliances or dental restorations.
Replace Tips as Recommended
It’s important to replace your water flosser tips as recommend to ensure the utmost effectiveness for your device. Depending on the brand of water flosser you choose and the particular tip you use, the recommendations for replacement can vary.
For example, Waterpik® recommends changing their Classic Jet Tip and Implant Denture Tip every six months, while tips with bristles need to be changed every three months as the bristles deteriorate [2]. Always follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for replacing your water flosser tips.
Select the Right Pressure Settings
Using the appropriate pressure settings for your water flosser can make a difference in its effectiveness. Having the right pressure is especially important for those using the water flosser for plaque control after gum disease and fixed dental restorations such as crowns and bridges [3].
Most water flossers include a few different pressure settings for you to choose from. Some brands recommend starting with the lowest setting and then increasing to your preferenc —or the setting your dentist recommends—over time.
Use Daily for Best Results
You should ideally floss once a day for best results, whether you’re using regular string floss or a water flosser. Using your water flosser daily helps remove plaque that can accumulate between teeth, around fixed orthodontic appliances, and dental restorations. It only takes a couple minutes to floss with a water flosser, so make this step part of your oral care routine for optimal oral health.
Do You Use a Water Flosser?
Have you made the switch to a water flosser yet? When adjusting to this device, be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions to help ensure you get the most impact from cleaning your teeth with this flossing tool. As always, flossing should never replace tooth brushing or regular dental visits, so be sure to use the water flosser as part of your oral care routine instead of in place of it!
Sources:
1. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24282867/
2. https://www.waterpik.com/oral-health/buying-guide/water-flosser-tips-guide/
3. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1013905221000328
