Water Flossers, Floss, Piks. What’s right for you?
As a dental hygienist, I often come across patients who struggle with traditional flossing techniques. Luckily, there are alternative options available, such as the Water Pik and floss picks. Keep in mind while water flossers such as water pik or floss piks may be easier to use and more convenient, you may not get the same outcome as you do with flossing. The purpose of flossing is 2 parts: 1) to remove plaque and food debris from in between the teeth 2) to stimulate the gum tissue to prevent inflammation and bleeding. If flossing is something you have tried and just cannot get the hang of, I always say anything is better than nothing. The mouth is full of so many bacteria both good and bad that disrupting that in any from is to your benefit.
Water Pik, is a type of water flosser and one people most associate with. This device uses a stream of water to clean between your teeth and along the gumline. It works by directing a pulsating jet of water to remove plaque, food particles, and bacteria from hard-to-reach areas. The Water Pik is easy to use and can be an effective tool for improving oral hygiene. Water pik is by far the most popular brand of water flossers and consistently has the most proven and effective products on the market. Two of the most recommended models in my practice are The Aquarius https://amzn.to/3HlAm3I which is their corded model and one people often think of when they think Water pik. The aquarius comes with 7 diff head types and 10 pressure settings. WORD TO THE WISE……. First time users ALWAYS ALWAYS ALWAYS start on the lowest pressure setting…. otherwise you are likely to blind yourself with a water jet to the eye!!!!! The 7 diff heads avail allow you to not only clean multiple diff ways, but a few of my favorite heads that come with this model, is the orthodontic head which is the small brush head . The Second model we recommend is the cordless model https://amzn.to/3tWSEFs . This allows people to use it anywhere including the shower, which most people find very effective because if they are gonna get water everywhere might as well be in a place they are already wet. Keep in mind the cordless model only offers 2-3 pressure settings and has a much smaller water reservoir. Also you are limited selection of heads which can be used on the cordless model.
From Left: #1-3 Classic Jet tip, #4 Orthodontic Head, #5 plaque seeker, #6 pik pocket tip, #7 toothbrush head
Floss picks, on the other hand, are small plastic tools that have a short piece of floss attached to a handle. They are designed to make flossing more convenient and accessible. Floss picks allow you to hold the floss firmly and reach between your teeth without having to maneuver the string around your fingers. The downside to floss piks is that oftentimes people push them too hard between their teeth causing small knicks in the gum or the floss shreds or breaks. Floss piks are great for people find it difficult to maneuver floss all the way to the back of their mouth or have limited dexterity to use actual floss. They are also very convenient to carry around.
Differences between Water Pik and Floss Picks:
Cleaning Effectiveness:
The Water Pik is particularly effective in removing debris and bacteria from deep gum pockets and tight spaces between teeth. The pulsating action of the water can help massage the gums and improve circulation. Floss picks, while useful for removing larger food particles, may not be as effective in cleaning hard-to-reach areas. Floss itself is known to only go about 3-4mm into the gum tissue. For those who have deeper pockets or active periodontal disease, floss alone would not be effective in reaching the base of the pocket.
Convenience and Ease of Use:
Water Piks are easy to use and can be a great option for individuals with braces, implants, or bridges. They also provide a gentle and soothing experience, making them ideal for those with sensitive gums. Floss picks, on the other hand, are portable and can be used on the go. They are a convenient option for quick flossing but may require more manual dexterity.
Choosing between a Water Pik and floss picks ultimately depends on personal preference and your specific oral health needs. If you struggle with traditional flossing techniques or have difficulty reaching certain areas, a Water Pik may be a better option. If you value portability and want a quick and convenient tool, floss picks could be the right choice for you. Remember, consistent and effective oral hygiene practices are key to keeping your smile healthy and bright! I always tell my patients it not necessary to own 100 dental products you never use but to use 1 consistently. You will not reach your dental goals any quicker if they are in a box under the cabinet.
If you are going to get a Waterpik and are an Amazon Prime member, I would highly recommended waiting until prime day as they are always half off and around $35-40 which is a steal of a deal!!!!!
