When you brush your teeth, you only clean about 60% of their surfaces. It is vital that you also clean the sides of your teeth that face each other, which your brush may not be able to reach. Traditionally, dental floss has always been the go-to product for this portion of the oral hygiene routine. Today, though, many people use a Waterpik (also called an oral irrigator or water flosser) instead. Is one option better than the other? Both have their pros and cons. Let’s talk about how you can decide which one is right for you.
Waterpik Pros and Cons
A Waterpik uses a stream of water to clean between the teeth. Some of the advantages of this type of product include:
- Water flossers are quite gentle and are unlikely to cause the gums to bleed.
- They can clean around braces, beneath bridges, and around other types of dental restorations.
- They are easy to use, which makes them a great option for people with arthritis in their hands or other mobility challenges.
Of course, water flossers also have a few downsides. They can cost quite a bit of money, and they can splash water all over, making it necessary to spend a little more time cleaning up your bathroom. Their biggest downside, though, is that they do not clean all the plaque off teeth. Using one is better than not cleaning between your teeth at all, but when it comes to effectiveness, old-fashioned dental floss wins.
Dental Floss Pros and Cons
The biggest advantages of string dental floss is that it is so effective. Used properly, it can clean virtually all of the plaque off of the sides of teeth, greatly reducing your risk of cavities and gum disease. Floss even comes in a variety of thicknesses, textures, and flavors to suit the needs and preferences of different patients. It is also extremely affordable.
The downsides of floss include:
- It requires extra effort to clean around braces and restorations.
- Many people dislike flossing and do not do it as often as they should.
- It takes some practice to master proper flossing technique.
Which Should You Choose?
During your next checkup and cleaning with your dentist, feel free to ask for advice on which products are best for your at-home oral care routine. They will probably tell you that unless you have braces or mobility issues, traditional floss is all you need. Of course, you don’t necessarily have to choose one or the other. You could incorporate both floss and a water flosser into your routine to enjoy the most thorough clean possible.
Waterpiks and dental floss both have their advantages and disadvantages. Your dental team can help you decide which one is best for you!
Meet the Practice
Dr. Bryan Griffith and his associate, Dr. Alex Hartgrove, offer comprehensive general dentistry services to the residents of Prestonsburg and the surrounding areas. They place a strong emphasis on preventive care and comfortable treatment. If you have questions about how to care for your teeth at home, they would be happy to speak with you. Contact our team at 606-874-9311.