If you dislike flossing with dental floss, a water flosser might be right for you. Water flossers are a safe way to remove plaque, but only if you use them right. We’ve got you covered with instructions on how to use a water flosser.
How to Use a Water Flosser?
Water flossers are fairly straightforward to use — the hardest part is figuring out which attachment you need!
A water flosser works by dislodging bacteria that is stuck between teeth using water pressure, where string floss works by manually dislodging the stuck bacteria as you move the floss string of back and forth. Most water flossers come with several tips; you will find one for orthodontia, one for targeting plaque, a toothbrush tip, and more.
Your manual will get you up to speed on what the different tips do, so you can select the best one. Insert the tip into the handle of your water flosser to get started. Then follow instructions to fill your water flosser’s reservoir with water. Lukewarm water works best; water that is too hot or too cold may be uncomfortable.
Lean over the sink so water can dribble out of your mouth and into the sink as you floss. Press the button on the water flosser and water will begin to flow from the tip into your mouth. Aim the water flosser at your back teeth first. Concentrate on the areas between teeth, where a toothbrush cannot reach. You don’t need to physically touch your teeth with the water flosser; water pressure should be high enough to dislodge bacteria.
Work along the gum line from the back to the front, adjusting the pressure as needed. Spend a couple of seconds on each tooth before moving on to the next. It will just take you a couple of minutes to completely clean your mouth.
When you have finished flossing, turn off the unit and dump out water that’s left in the reservoir (as bacteria can grow).
Who Should Use a Water Flosser?
Anyone can use a water flosser, but there are some people who may find it more beneficial. If you struggle to floss using dental floss, then this may make it easier. People with dental work (such as braces or bridges) struggle to floss using string floss and will find it a snap to floss using a water flosser.
Water flossing daily removes plaque and can treat mild stage gingivitis (aka gum disease). For best results, look for a water flosser that is approved by the ADA and use it daily; after all, that water flosser won’t do you much good if it’s just sitting on the bathroom shelf.
Would you like to talk more about flossing techniques or get recommendations from a dentist on which water flosser is best? We would be happy to talk to you. Call our office or reserve your next appointment online for complete Tampa dental services, from routine cleanings to cosmetic dentistry.