Standing in the dental health aisle at the drugstore, you debate whether you should get a water flosser or buy boring, old floss. Perhaps you’ve heard positive feedback about water flossers, or maybe you hesitate to invest in this technology, because you want to spend your money on the best option! Which one will help your oral health the most? Here is some advice to keep in mind!
What Is Traditional Floss?
For over one hundred years, commercial floss hasn’t evolved much. After World War II, it changed from silk to nylon, but otherwise, the concept remains the same. This method involves using a slim string to scrape plaque off teeth in the spaces between. You can purchase floss in dispensers or in precut sections on plastic flossers, and you can select various flavors and textures for the string.
What Are Water Flossers?
More technologically advanced water flossers use a stream of water to rinse away plaque in the small areas that toothbrushes can’t reach. This device ranges in price based on the brand. Some people who have more complicated dental work find this option cleans slightly better, especially for those with dexterity problems.
Pros of Both
While water flossers are easier to work with for those with arthritis or other mobility issues, traditional floss can be more effective for other patients. Also, water flossers usually feel gentler than string floss, which means you’re less likely to bleed.
Cons of Both
If you aren’t thorough or using either water flosser or traditional string appropriately, they may not be effective or efficient. Unfortunately, water flossers can be expensive, and you may find they can be messy if you don’t control or use them properly.
Is Water Flossing Better Than Normal Flossing?
Ultimately, each person can choose which option works best for them. As long as you floss correctly every day either before or after brushing, you can gain the benefits of this little habit for long-term oral health. Because of its gentle water pressure, if you haven’t flossed for a while or don’t know the proper technique for traditional floss, a water flosser may be the better choice for you. You may wish to use a water flosser if you can’t move your hands, wrists, or arms easily. However, traditional floss gives you more control and a more accurate feeling of the plaque on your teeth. Again, your dentist only cares that you’ve found the method that you actually and properly implement into your daily routine!
Regardless of which one you choose, make sure you integrate flossing into your day, along with brushing twice. At your next dental checkup and cleaning appointment, your dentist will be able to tell!
About the Practice
At Williamsburg Dental, we emphasize the importance of preventive care, and we strive to share essential information for at-home care with our patients. Even if a problem comes up, such as a cavity, gum disease, or something else, our team has years of training and experience to manage complicated treatment to get your oral health back on track. We don’t judge your current condition—we simply want to help you smile with confidence again! If you need to schedule a cleaning and checkup appointment, don’t hesitate to contact one of our six Lincoln locations.