A water flosser is a device used to maintain dental hygiene that uses a high-pressure throw of water to clean the area between teeth and the gum line. It works by removing food particles, plaque, and bacteria, helping to prevent cavities and gum disease. Water flossers are especially useful for people with braces, dental implants, or those who struggle with traditional dental floss. The device usually includes a motor with a pump, a water reservoir, and a water flosser tip. By improving your oral hygiene routine, a water flosser can contribute to good oral health.
Is A Water Flosser Worth It?
Water flossers, also known as oral irrigators, have grown in popularity over recent years as a modern, effective alternative to traditional string floss. These devices offer a range of benefits and can be a fine addition to your daily oral hygiene routine. Let’s explore the key benefits of water flossers in depth:
User-Friendly
One of the main benefits of water flossers is their ease of use. Traditional flossing can be time-consuming and difficult, especially for those with limited dexterity or physical conditions like arthritis. A water flosser, with its ergonomic design and one-touch operation, can make the process of flossing quicker and easier.
Effective Plaque Removal
Water flossers are highly effective at removing plaque from your teeth.
The pressurised water stream can reach areas that traditional floss can’t, such as deep between teeth and below the gum line.
By removing plaque effectively, water flossers can help to prevent tooth decay and gum disease, ensuring a healthier oral environment.
Ideal for Dental Appliances
If you have braces, bridges, implants, or crowns, you’ll know that cleaning around these appliances can be challenging with traditional floss. Water flossers excel in this area by using pressurised water to clean around and underneath these dental appliances, ensuring a more thorough clean.
Beneficial for Gum Health
Water flossers have been proven to be beneficial for gum health. Studies have found that they can reduce signs of gum disease like gingivitis and periodontitis by effectively flushing out bacteria from beneath the gum line. The massaging effect of the water can also improve blood circulation in the gums, promoting better gum health.
Water Flossing Reduces Bleeding
For individuals with sensitive gums that tend to bleed during flossing, a water flosser can be a great solution. The gentle water stream is less likely to cause irritation or bleeding, making flossing a more comfortable experience. Over time, as gum health improves, bleeding should decrease even further.
Adjustable Pressure Settings
Water flossers come with adjustable pressure settings to cater to different needs and comfort levels. If you have sensitive teeth or gums, you can use a lower-pressure setting. As you get accustomed to the sensation, you can gradually increase the pressure for a more thorough cleaning.
Effective for Deep Pockets
If you have periodontal disease, you might have deep pockets that are challenging to clean with traditional floss. A water flosser can penetrate these pockets effectively, flushing out bacteria and debris, which can help to control the progression of the disease.
Helps with Bad Breath
Smelly breath, or halitosis, is often caused by food debris and bacteria trapped in hard-to-reach areas of your mouth. By effectively cleaning these areas, a water flosser can help to combat bad breath, leaving your mouth feeling fresher.
Promotes Healthier Teeth and Gums
Regular flossing, alongside brushing and regular dental check-ups, promotes healthier teeth and gums. By eliminating harmful bacteria and plaque, it helps to prevent tooth decay, gum disease, and other dental problems, contributing to a healthier, brighter smile.
Convenient and Time-Saving
Water flossers can be more convenient and time-saving compared to traditional floss. They allow you to floss your entire mouth in just a minute or two, making it easy to incorporate into your daily routine. Some models can even be used in the shower for added convenience.
Environmentally Friendly
Unlike traditional floss, which is often made of non-recyclable materials, water flossers are reusable and don’t require any disposable parts, making them a more environmentally friendly option.
The bottom line is water flossers offer numerous benefits for individuals with varying dental needs and lifestyles. From being user-friendly and effective at plaque removal to promoting gum health and being ideal for dental appliances, they are an advantageous tool for maintaining oral health.
Always remember, though, that while water flossers are a great supplement to oral care, they do not replace the need for regular brushing and routine dental check-ups.
If you’re considering incorporating a water flosser into your oral hygiene routine, it’s advisable to consult with your dentist to make the most appropriate choice for your needs.
How To Take Care Of A Water Flosser?
Proper care and maintenance of a water flosser can extend its lifespan and ensure its effectiveness. Here are some key steps to take care of a water flosser:
Regular Cleaning
Clean your water flosser regularly. Rinse the reservoir thoroughly after each use to prevent bacteria and mould buildup. Most water flossers have detachable reservoirs that are dishwasher safe, so you can run them through a cleaning cycle for a thorough cleanse.
Handle with Care
Be careful when handling the flosser and its attachments. The tips can be delicate and may damage easily if dropped or mishandled.
Regularly Change Tips
Change the flosser tips as per the manufacturer’s recommendations, usually every three to six months. If you notice the tip is worn out, replace it sooner. Using worn-out tips can reduce the effectiveness of the flosser.
Vinegar Solution
Periodically, you should deep-clean the flosser using a solution of vinegar and water (typically one part vinegar to two parts water).
Fill the reservoir with the solution and run the flosser until the reservoir is empty.
This helps to remove any mineral buildup inside the flosser.
Dry After Use
After each use, allow the flosser to dry out completely to prevent bacteria or mould growth.
Store Correctly
Store the flosser in a clean, dry place when not in use. This can help to prevent any accidental damage and maintain hygiene.
Taking proper care of your water flosser ensures its longevity and effectiveness, helping you maintain a healthy oral hygiene routine.
Should you be pondering the inclusion of an oral irrigator in your daily dental care, do not hesitate to reach out to Beyond Infinity Dental. Our friendly team is ready to offer custom advice to match your unique oral health requirements. Our devotion lies in assisting you to attain the best dental health possible. Contact us at (02) 8806 3799 to explore if a water flosser might be the right fit for enhancing your oral hygiene routine.
References
5 Amazing Benefits of Water Flossing
https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/5-incredible-advantages-water-flossing-you-ought-aware-levi-kenn/
Rinku Prakash on LinkedIn: The Benefits of Using a Water Flosser
https://www.linkedin.com/posts/rinkuprakash_the-benefits-of-using-a-water-flosser-activity-7062293850932867072-FuId/
How To Stick To A Tooth-Flossing Habit, Once And For All | HuffPost Life
https://www.huffpost.com/entry/how-to-stick-to-a-flossing-habit_l_63bd9bfae4b0ae9de1c21ffb
Pros and Cons of Normal and Water Flossers
https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/pros-cons-normal-water-flossers-dr-jayati-dubey/?trk=pulse-article
