Flossing is important to prevent tooth decay and gum disease. Flossers (also called oral irrigators) spray bursts of water around teeth and between them, removing plaque and food particles.
They are especially beneficial for people with braces, who struggle to get food out from behind and underneath the wires. They can also help those with conditions that limit their hands’ dexterity.
Reduces Plaque and Bacteria
A water flosser’s pulsating stream of water, which is angled toward the gum line and between teeth to ensure a thorough interdental cleaning, can remove food debris and bacteria that brushes can’t reach. That helps to prevent tooth decay, gum disease and bad breath.
Depending on the model you choose, some water flossers have built-in antimicrobial agents that help to kill bacteria and leave your mouth feeling fresher. Others offer a wide variety of pressure settings and pulsation options.
Some dentists recommend adding a water flosser to your daily oral hygiene routine, especially if you wear braces, have dental work or bridgework, or have tight spaces between your teeth that can be difficult to clean with standard string floss. According to Healthline, people with these dental concerns often report significant improvement in their gum health after using a water flosser.
A water flosser is also a good choice for people who suffer from dry mouth, which can cause plaque to harden into tartar more quickly than it would otherwise. Saliva normally protects the gums and helps keep your mouth free of sticky plaque, but certain medications or genetics may interfere with this natural process. A water flosser adds moisture to your mouth and can help to eliminate dry, sticky plaque. The pulsating water from a water flosser is also gentle on the gums, which can reduce bleeding and help keep them healthy.
Eliminates Bad Breath
A water flosser (also known as an oral irrigator or dental water jet) is a special device that uses a targeted, pressurized stream of pulsating water to clean away food particles and bacteria between teeth and under the gumline. This pulsating action also helps stimulate the gum tissue. The water can be used alone, or a mixture of salt and water can be added for extra antibacterial benefits. The water reservoir should be emptied after use so that bacteria does not grow inside the product.
Flossing is very important for fresh breath, as it removes the bacteria that create odor in the mouth. However, it can be difficult to stick to a flossing routine because of its inconvenience.
For example, people with Parkinson’s disease may find it difficult to hold a flossing thread in their hand and work it between their teeth. Using a water flosser can help these patients maintain good oral hygiene by making the process much easier.
It is also a great option for people who suffer from halitosis (bad breath) caused by medications or certain diseases, such as diabetes or chronic sinus infections. These conditions can cause dry mouth, which also contributes to bad breath. Adding a water flosser to your daily oral hygiene regimen can greatly improve your mouth’s odor. However, remember that it is not a substitute for brushing your teeth twice per day and flossing regularly with regular string floss.
Prevents Gum Disease
A water flosser can help you avoid gum disease because it removes plaque and bacteria that cling to teeth. It also helps control gum inflammation. This allows you to have a healthy mouth and reduces the likelihood of developing cavities or tooth decay, which requires dental treatment from your dentist in Everett.
Regular flossing is important for your oral health, but it can be difficult to do. This is especially true if you have braces or other orthodontic devices that interfere with the way you floss. A water flosser, also known as an oral irrigator or a water pick, can make it easier to clean your teeth and prevent gum disease.
The water flosser works by spraying a stream of pressurized water in your mouth. You can control the flow of the water and choose from different pulsation settings. The water can easily reach the nooks and crannies of your teeth and other areas that are hard to reach with traditional flossing.
The benefits of using a water flosser include the ability to reduce gum inflammation and gingivitis, improve gum health, eliminate bad breath, and clean the hard-to-reach spots in your mouth. This is why many dentists recommend that you use a water flosser in conjunction with regular flossing. This will ensure that you are getting the most complete and thorough cleaning possible.
Reduces Bleeding
Using a water flosser can help reduce gum bleeding, which is often caused by rough flossing or improper technique. The pulsating stream of water is gentle and helps to flush the area clean without hurting your gums. If you’re worried about sensitivity, start with a low-pressure setting and work your way up.
The specialized orthodontic jet tip on many water flossers can be very useful if you have braces or other dental work that makes it hard to use standard floss. Food tends to get stuck behind and underneath wires, so a water flosser can get it all out easily. It can also be used to help prevent the build-up of plaque and tartar around brackets that can lead to gum disease if not cleaned regularly.
A water flosser can also be helpful for people who have trouble wrapping string floss around their fingers, or those with arthritis. It can reach deep into periodontal pockets where normal floss may not, and can remove debris and bacteria.
It’s important to remember that a water flosser should be used in conjunction with brushing and regular dental visits to ensure optimal oral health. If you’re interested in purchasing a water flosser, we recommend talking to your dentist, as they can offer advice on the best brand for you. The most important thing is to get into a good habit of flossing every day!