Many dentists advise using water flossers, particularly for people who have already started to develop gum infection. Unlike traditional floss, a water flosser is capable of cleaning deep into our periodontal holes, eliminating plaque and food scraps that traditional floss can't reach. They are perfect for braces.
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.
Using a Waterpik® for braces is absolutely safe! A water flosser can be an excellent tool to help you get in those hard-to-reach nooks and crannies to keep your teeth sparkling clean.
Unfortunately, they DO NOT remove plaque (bacterial colonies) like floss does because effective flossing literally “wipes” the sticky plaque off teeth and Waterpiks can only “rinse” these areas. However, combining both flossing and Waterpiks can achieve great results!
Scientific research shows that oral irrigation, such as the Waterpik, is superior to string floss in reducing plaque and gingivitis. However, most dentists continue to recommend flossing before or after using a Waterpik.
How many times per day should I use my Water Flosser? You should use your Waterpik® Water Flosser at least once per day. Why? To maintain good oral health, the American Dental Association recommends that you floss at least once per day and brush your teeth at least twice per day.
3. Can a Water Flosser damage teeth or gums? Though some may find that their gums bleed when they first use one, a Water Flosser does not damage teeth or gums.
While Waterpiks have a place in oral care, they shouldn't replace brushing, flossing, or visits to your dentist. Waterpiks can't remove plaque or stuck-on debris, so it's important to continue to floss and receive professional cleanings regularly.
How to use: Place the tip close to the teeth so that the bristles are gently touching the teeth. As you water floss, gently glide the tip along the gumline, pausing briefly between teeth to gently brush and allow the water to flow between the teeth.
Conclusion. Using a Waterpik water flosser can be very messy at first. To stop the water from going everywhere, make sure you are always bent over the sink, and that you keep your mouth slightly open so the water can drip out of your mouth, and into the sink.
Listerine and chlorhexidine are safe to use in a Waterpik water flosser. Also, a 1:1 ratio of any standard, antiseptic, or therapeutic mouthwash works well in 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.
In most cases, the ache you feel is because your teeth are getting used to being properly cleaned. This is especially important in the case of gingivitis. If it isn't properly addressed in its early phases, it will evolve into periodontitis. Remember to do gentle movements and consult with your personal dentist.
Generally, when bleeding occurs while using floss or Waterpiks, it results from tartar and bacteria build-up or improper technique. It may seem odd that your cleaning method will cause bleeding when fighting tartar and bacteria effectively. However, flossing and Waterpiks often reach areas that toothbrushes can not.
Can a Waterpik hurt your gums? Some people may experience that their gums hurt while using a Waterpik for the first time, especially if their gums are inflamed. Be cautious and start with the lowest water pressure setting.
Should my patients use the Water Flosser before or after brushing? We recommend using the Water Flosser prior to toothbrushing: Removing food and debris enhances the effectiveness of both toothbrushing and toothpaste. Instructing patients to use it first improves compliance.
While water flossers are generally considered safe for most people, there is some evidence to suggest that overuse or incorrect use can lead to gum damage.
After 2 weeks of testing water flossers, I found that for most people, the best option is the Philips Sonicare Power Flosser 3000. Most water flossers do a comparable job of cleaning your mouth, with similar pressure levels, ergonomics and general usability.
So, the myth still persists. But here's the bottom line: Science has proven that the Waterpik® brand of Water Flossers can effectively remove plaque from hard-to-reach areas.
Soak the Water Flosser tip in a container of 2 parts water, 1 part hydrogen peroxide or white vinegar for 5 minutes. Rinse the tip under warm water. For maximum effectiveness over time, we recommend replacing Water Flosser tips every 3-6 months.