What Are Water Flossers?
Water flossers, also known as water irrigators, are devices that use a stream of pressurized water to clean between teeth and along the gumline. They are a popular alternative to traditional string floss for maintaining good oral hygiene and preventing gum disease.
Water flossers work by filling a reservoir with water and selecting a pressure setting. The device then shoots a stream of water through a small, pointed tip, which is placed between the teeth or along the gumline. The water pressure helps to remove food particles and plaque from between the teeth and along the gumline, as well as massaging the gums to improve circulation and reduce inflammation.
Benefits of Water Flossing
One of the main benefits of using a water flosser is that it can reach areas of the mouth that traditional floss may not be able to access, such as around braces or between tightly spaced teeth. It is also an effective way to clean around dental implants, crowns, and bridges, as it can gently remove plaque without damaging the restoration.
Water flossers are also a good option for people with sensitivity or dexterity issues, as they may find traditional flossing too difficult or painful. The water pressure can be adjusted to a comfortable level, and the device can be used with one hand, making it easier for people with arthritis or other conditions that affect hand movement.
In addition to their practical benefits, water flossers are also convenient and easy to use. Many models come with multiple tips for different areas of the mouth, as well as a timer to ensure that the recommended two minutes of cleaning time is reached. They can be used in the shower or at the sink, and the water can be flavored with mouthwash or other solutions for a fresher clean.
In a review published in the Journal of Clinical Dentistry, researchers found that water flossing was significantly more effective at reducing plaque and gum inflammation compared to string floss. Another study published in the Journal of Periodontology found that water flossing was more effective at reducing gum bleeding compared to string floss.
Here are some more research data showing the benefits of water flossing from WaterPik:
- Effective Plaque Removal. Removes up to 99.9% of plaque from treated areas.
- Healthier Gums. Up to 50% more effective for improving gum health vs. string floss.
- Superior Cleaning Around Braces. Up to 3X as effective for removing plaque around braces vs. string floss.
- Essential for Implants. Up to 2X as effective for improving gum health around implants vs. string floss.
Ultimately, the best method for maintaining good oral hygiene will depend on an individual’s needs and preferences, and it is important to use a combination of brushing, mouthwash, and regular dental check-ups in addition to water flossing or traditional dental floss.
Tips for Using a Water Flosser from Your Leesburg, VA Dentist
1. Fill reservoir with warm water
You can use mouthwash or other solutions in the water reservoir for a fresher clean.
2. Lean over the sink & place tip in your mouth.
Start slowly and gradually increase the pressure as you get used to the device.
3. Aim the tip along the gumline and between teeth on both the front and back sides
Focus on one area at a time, moving the tip slowly and methodically to ensure that all areas are thoroughly cleaned.
Choosing a Water Flosser
When choosing a water flosser, it’s important to consider the size and shape of the device, as well as the pressure settings and number of tips it comes with. Some models are designed for travel and have smaller reservoirs, while others have larger reservoirs and more advanced features such as LED lights or multiple pressure settings. It’s also a good idea to read reviews and consult with a dental professional to determine the best option for your needs.
Here are some popular water flossers to consider:
Waterpik Cordless Advanced Water Flosser
The Waterp[ik Cordless Advanced is a travel-friendly handheld and cordless water flosser. It has 4 tips, 3 pressure settings, a removable 7 oz reservoir, a 45 sec floss time, and a rechargeable battery.
The device comes with a travel bag, tip case, and magnetic charger.
Waterpik Aquarius Water Flosser Professional
The counter-top Waterpik Aquarius is an advanced water flosser with 10 pressure settings and a built-in timer/pacer for custom cleaning.
It has a high-volume reservoir of 22 ounces for 90 seconds of use and a slim handle for easy maneuvering.
The Aquarius features 7 tips, a removable 22 oz reservoir, and 360 tip rotation.
H2ofloss HF-9 Dental Water Flosser
The H2ofloss HF-9 is a quiet counter-top water flosser with 6 pressure settings. It comes with 12 multifunctional tips and is ideal for those with braces, implants, crowns, or periodontal pockets.
Water Flosser Tips
Water flosser tips come in different shapes and sizes to accommodate different dental needs. Some common types of water flosser tips include:
Classic Jet Tip: This is the standard tip for general flossing and cleaning of all teeth surfaces.
Orthodontic Tip: For orthodontic appliances and dental braces. Removes three times more plaque and improves gum health. Tapered brush removes plaque around orthodontic appliances and flushes out bacteria.
Plaque Seeker Tip: This tip is specifically designed for removing plaque from areas with tight spaces, such as around implants and bridges.
Tongue Cleaner Tip: This tip is used for cleaning the tongue, freshening breath and removing bacteria.
Pik Pocket Tip: This tip is designed for individuals with periodontal pockets and is used to clean below the gumline.
These are just some of the types of water flosser tips available and the specific types offered can vary between different brands and models.
About Dental Innovations of Virginia – Your Leesburg, VA Dentist
Dental Innovations of Virginia provides comprehensive dental services, and preventive dentistry for the whole family. In addition to our Lansdowne office serving the Leesburg, Lansdowne, Ashburn, Loudoun County areas, we also come to you via our DIVA Mobile Clinic service for patients living in long-term care facilities, and our DIVA Home Visit service for patients who prefer to receive treatments in the comfort of their own home.
Dr. Joon Coe, Dr. Julie Coe, and the rest of the DIVA team look forward to helping you achieve a brighter smile and the highest possible dental health. We’re located at 19490 Sandridge Way, Suite 160, Lansdowne, VA 20176. We’re open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Contact us to schedule an appointment or ask us a question.