Traditional vs. Water Floss: Can the Waterpik Replace Flossing?
While restorative dentistry to treat cavities, gum disease, and tooth loss is effective, preventative care is always best. That’s why brushing and flossing is crucial for a healthy smile. Yet we notice that more people are investing in Waterpiks, which allow them to get the benefits of flossing with a simple stream of water.
Whenever new dental products hit the market, people usually ask Philadelphia, PA dentist Dr. Bruce Wilderman his opinion. Some dental products are just passing fads, while others may be able to help improve your dental health and wellness. The Artistic Expressions Dentistry team would like to compare the Waterpik to traditional dental floss. Which one is better? Let’s find out.
How a Waterpik Work
Also known as a water flosser or water picking, a Waterpik is a machine that uses a pressurized stream of water to massage the gums and push particles of food out from between your teeth. The handheld nozzle is about the size of a toothbrush, and the rest of the Waterpik device usually fits on available counter space by your bathroom sink.
The Benefits of Water Flossing
Waterpiks offer a number of benefits over traditional floss.
- Easy to Use - Using a water flosser is simple. Just fill the water reservoir, open your mouth, and spray until your teeth and gums are clean.
- More Convenient - Many people find using dental floss is inconvenient given the many motions involved. Water flossing makes the act of flossing much more convenient. No need to fumble and fuss with floss. Just spray the water and that’s that. If you have braces or an orthodontic bar in place, water flossing much easier than using floss threaders.
- Ideal for People with Arthritis - If you have arthritis or any other conditions that affect grip strength or hand mobility, water flossers will make oral hygiene far easier for you.
Is Water Picking Better Than Traditional Flossing?
Generally speaking, Waterpiks can be better than traditional floss just given the numerous benefits noted above. Water picking systems can vary, but studies have found that water flossing is generally 51 percent more effective than flossing at preventing gingivitis and 29 percent more effective than flossing at removing dental plaque.
If you have issues with flossing, you may want to consider trying a Waterpik to see how that improves your dental hygiene practices.
The Drawback of Waterpiks: The Cost
The cost of a water flossing system may give some people seconds thoughts about buying a Waterpik. A water flossing system can range in price from $35 to more than $100. Many of the ADA-approved and better-reviewed water flossing systems cost roughly $40 and up.
The long-term benefits of this investment can offset the upfront cost of a water flossing device, however. Keep that in mind.
Should I Use Floss or a Waterpik?
Why not both?
Some people replace traditional floss with a Waterpik, while others decide to double up on their oral hygiene practice. Brushing, flossing, and water flossing may be the best way to help you mouth stay fresh, healthy, and looking great for years and years to come.
Learn More About Dental Health Topics
For more information about oral hygiene and other matters related to dental health and wellness, be sure to contact an experienced cosmetic and restorative dentist. The team at Artistic Expressions Dentistry is here to help. You can reach our practice by phone at (215) 340-1199.