With the rise of technology in every area of our lives, it seems only natural that new and improved devices would find their way into our bathrooms and self-care routines. While oral hygiene is not anyone’s favorite task, we all know it’s a necessary one. With the invention and improvement of at-home dental devices, our oral hygiene can easily be made simpler, more enjoyable, and far more effective than in the past.
Water flossers are a common sight in many American bathrooms. They provide a form of flossing that doesn’t involve string going between the teeth and offers a more comfortable solution. And while dentists generally maintain that water flossers are to be used as a supplement to rather than a replacement for standard flossing, they are still extremely beneficial and helpful for keeping those pearly whites clean and healthy.
You may have heard the term “water flosser” before, but have you hear the term Waterpik? If so, you may have wondered what the difference is between the two. The truth is there is no difference. A Waterpik is simply a brand of water flosser that has become so well known that the name of the company and the product itself have become synonymous.
So now you know that a Waterpik is simply a type of water flosser, but what do these dental devices actually do? What are their benefits, and can they replace traditional flossing?
Features of Water Flossers
While not every water flosser is created equal, there are some common features across most models.
Common water flosser features include:
- Adjustable water pressure
- A water reservoir
- Replaceable tips for multiple users
- Rotating tip control
- Massage mode
- Timers
Advantages of Water Flossers
Many dentists recommend water flossers, as they offer many benefits to an individual’s oral health. However, it’s important to remember that using a water flosser is not a replacement for daily brushing and standard flossing. It’s a supplemental care activity that can help improve the health of your teeth and gums.
Don’t be discouraged by the idea of adding another step to your routine though. Daily use of a water flosser comes with a number of benefits:
- Easy-to-use for any age
- Gets into hard-to-reach areas that are often neglected
- Cleans thoroughly between tightly spaced teeth
- Gentle on gums
- Fun to use
Disadvantages of Water Flossers
As with anything, alongside advantages come some disadvantages. The primary disadvantages of using a water flosser include the following:
- May not remove all plaque or tartar buildup
- Can get messy if you’re not careful
- Can be costly depending on the model you purchase
- Not as easy to control as standard floss
It’s important to note, once again, that water flossers should be used in conjunction with twice-daily brushing and flossing. When you are also flossing with regular dental floss, you eliminate concerns of leaving behind plaque and tartar on the teeth.
Although using a water flosser may have a bit of a learning curve and require a little more of an upfront investment, in the end, they offer many advantages. Whether you opt for a Waterpik or another brand of water flosser, be sure it has all the features you desire in order to get your money’s worth and make the most of it.
Depending on your situation, it might make sense to purchase just one Waterpik (or other brand of water flosser) that comes with different tips, so the whole family can share, and everyone benefits without each person needing their own. Remember to continue brushing and flossing each day, and keep up with your biannual dental checkups to maintain the health of your teeth and gums.
FAQs
If so, you may have wondered what the difference is between the two. The truth is there is no difference. A Waterpik is simply a brand of water flosser that has become so well known that the name of the company and the product itself have become synonymous.
Do dentists actually recommend water flossers? ›
Dentists generally recommend water flossers as an effective way to remove plaque and keep teeth healthy. Water flossers are especially beneficial for those wearing fixed dental appliances like bridges, permanent retainers, and braces.
What are the disadvantages of using a Waterpik? ›
The rinsing action of Waterpiks may not be enough to remove plaque completely from the surface of your teeth. Some people like to use string floss first to scrape off and loosen plaque. A Waterpik can then be used to efficiently rinse out residue and plaque left behind.
Can you use a Waterpik instead of dental floss? ›
However, if you simply cannot floss or are not willing to learn the proper technique, it's better to use a Waterpik than to not use anything at all to clean between your teeth. Waterpiks can loosen food particles and other debris that toothbrushes leave behind.
Do you brush your teeth before or after using a Waterpik? ›
The ideal time to use a Waterpik is before you brush your teeth. This is because doing so can allow you to remove food debris and plaque. When you use a Waterpik before brushing your teeth, teeth brushing becomes more effective.
Can I put Listerine in my Waterpik? ›
Can I use mouthwash or other additives in a WATERPIK water flosser? Yes, although all you need for effectiveness is warm water, there are additives including certain types of mouthwash that are safe to use.
Can bacteria grow in Waterpik? ›
Any particle left behind, whether it be mold, mycotoxins, or bacteria, means that exposure continues and any adverse health reactions will persist. That's why it's best to start fresh with a waterpik that isn't steeped in contamination.
Should you still floss if you use a water flosser? ›
Using string dental floss and a water flosser together will provide the most thorough cleaning and dental hygiene. Choosing and using a water flosser is an effective part of oral hygiene. Keeping teeth and the nooks and crannies between them clean is just one part of dental health.
How often should you use a dental water flosser? ›
Recommended Frequency and Duration of Use: It's generally safe to use a water flosser once or twice a day for two minutes at a time. Correct Technique for Water Flossing: Hold the water flosser tip at a 45-degree angle to the teeth and gums and aim the stream of water directly at the gum line.
Can Waterpik cause gum recession? ›
No, water flossing does not cause gum recession nor damage to teeth or crowns. On the contrary, water flossing aids in flushing debris out of bridges, crowns, implants, braces, and other dental restoration better than brushing and flossing alone which can extend the lifespan of your dental restorations.
Since flossing daily is recommended, using a WaterPik daily is also encouraged. Although you can use it in the morning, night usage is ideal. This is because typically, you'll go the longest without food or drink overnight. You've already had all your meals for the day and can end the day with perfectly clean teeth.
What not to do with a Waterpik? ›
Any time an agent other than water is used in the water flosser, flush the unit by running plain water through it afterwards. Do not use iodine or water insoluble concentrated essential oils; use of these can reduce performance and will shorten the life of the product.
Does a Waterpik remove tartar? ›
Water flossing can be an effective tool for maintaining good oral hygiene and preventing the buildup of tartar. However, a water flosser may not remove existing tartar once it has formed. Using a water flosser can aid in tartar prevention, but it's not a substitute for professional dental cleanings.
Do you floss before or after brushing? ›
Recent research suggests flossing before brushing your teeth is the way to go. This approach is superior for eliminating dental plaque on tooth surfaces and boosts the fluoride concentration in your mouth. Flossing before brushing helps strengthen your tooth enamel, making it more resistant to decay.
Do I need to use string floss if I use a Waterpik? ›
But some studies find water flossers don't remove plaque as well as traditional floss. Don't throw away your traditional dental floss just to try something new. Most dentists still consider regular flossing the best way to clean between your teeth.
Can Waterpik remove tartar? ›
Water flossing can be an effective tool for maintaining good oral hygiene and preventing the buildup of tartar. However, a water flosser may not remove existing tartar once it has formed. Using a water flosser can aid in tartar prevention, but it's not a substitute for professional dental cleanings.
What kind of Waterpik do dentists use? ›
Accepted Product Lines: Waterpik Aquarius Professional Water Flosser Series.
