We all love to have a white smile and healthy teeth and gums because it positively contributes to our physical health and emotional well-being. Most of us know that means brushing your teeth at least twice a day and regularly flossing, along with regular dental cleanings with your Bloomfield dental hygienist. However, the days of traditional string floss dominating the scene are over. Today, there are more flossing options, including the waterpik flosser.
Let’s dive into what makes both of these options recommendations of your Broomfield dentist and dental hygienist beneficial for daily use.
What is a Waterpik flosser?
A waterpik flosser uses a narrowly directed stream of water to gently floss between your teeth, removing bacteria, plaque, and food particles. Like traditional floss, they work to keep your gums healthy by removing anything that could end up damaging your gums or contributing to gingivitis. That being said, waterpik flossers can also prevent inflammation by flushing away bacteria from in between your teeth and gums.
Rather than scraping your gums, waterpiks use water pressure to massage your gums and push any leftover food away from your teeth. You can personalize the settings, allowing you to make the process comfortable, while also refreshing for your mouth.
The best way to use a waterpik is to place it inside your mouth, leaving a small gap where water can drain out. It is secure and gentle around any implants or restorations, including crowns and bridges. A waterpik can also be an effective way to clean your teeth and gums if you have braces. If you have sensitive gums, a waterpik can be a gentler alternative. Finally, a waterpik can increase your accessibility to reach between tightly spaced teeth or shallow periodontal pockets.
Is It Better Than String Flossing?
The American Dental Association notes that the waterpik provides a steady stream of water on the teeth to remove biofilm to improve your overall oral health between dental visits. Where waterpiks tend to have an edge, according to your Bloomfield dentist or dental hygienist, is that they can assist in cleaning out pockets between the teeth, helping to alleviate bleeding gums and reduce gum disease. A study also showed that water flossing with a waterpik plus brushing were more effective at keeping your gums healthy than just string flossing and brushing combined.
Various research has found that the waterpik had a higher reduction in plaque versus string floss. Other studies demonstrate that water flossing is significantly more proficient, up to 93%, that traditional flossing methods.
Which Should You Use?
While waterpiks can have significant benefits when it comes to keeping your mouth healthy, the most important thing to remember is that you need to floss daily. Therefore, if you choose to use traditional string floss or a waterpik flosser, you can enjoy the benefits of healthy gums and teeth. However, if you find flossing a challenge, then consider a waterpik flosser as a viable alternative. Your Bloomfield dentist or dental hygienist can help you find one that fits your needs.
Contact us today to schedule a regular cleaning as part of keeping your mouth and gums healthy for years to come.
SmileLogic, Inc. has been serving Colorado with first-class dental hygiene services for over 15 years.