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Watch out, dental floss – water flossers are coming for the throne. Unlike flossing, which can make it a challenge to reach every nook and cranny, the best water flossers are much easier to use once you get the hang of them. However, our dental experts recommend using both methods in tandem, so don’t throw away your floss just yet.
It’s important to note that not all water flossers (or even dental care products) are created equal. Some are portable to maintain oral hygiene on the go, while others are countertop models that take up more space. Without proper research, you could end up with one that causes a minor flood in your bathroom or dies the moment you get off the plane during your vacation. If you’ve never used a water flosser before, it can be easy to feel intimidated. To help you get started, we asked two dentists for their recommendations, including key tips on how and when to use a water flosser.
Our top picks
In this story
Best Overall: Waterpik Aquarius Water Flosser
- Why we love it: The brand most associated with water flossers is Waterpik, the proverbial Kleenex of the water flosser world. This model in particular is a top choice because of the large reservoir, so you don’t have to refill it often, and the advanced pressure settings. “It is especially effective for people with braces or implants, as it ensures thorough care and maintenance,” says renowned dentist Dr. Sands. With 10 settings to choose from, you can adjust the intensity to your preference.
- Pressure settings: 10 settings (1-10)
- Countertop or wireless: Counter
- Water tank size: 22 fl. oz.
- Timer: Yes
- Rotary point: Yes
Best wireless: Panasonic cordless dental water flosser
- Why we love it: This water flosser is the ultimate travel companion, offering a smart blend of power and portability. “The compact design makes it easy to carry and use, while the easy maintenance makes it perfect for anyone who needs reliable oral care on the go,” says Dr. Sands.
- Pressure settings: 2 (low and high)
- Countertop or wireless: Wireless
- Water tank size: 5.5 fl. oz.
- Timer: No
- Rotary point: No
Best Design: Quip rechargeable water flosser
- Why we love it: As a Taurus, aesthetics are very important to me, especially if the item is going to take up valuable space on the bathroom counter. This Quip water flosser is not only attractive, but its functionality shines just as bright. According to cosmetic dentist Dr. Joyce Kahng, “The Quip water flosser provides continuous or on-demand flow, giving users more control and potentially reducing mess.” It is also great for people with braces because it “provides effective cleaning between the teeth and along the gums. The two pressure modes allow users to adjust the intensity of their flossing, which can improve plaque removal and gum health,” adds Dr. Sands.
- Pressure settings: 2 (soft and deep)
- Countertop or wireless: Wireless
- Water tank size: 150 ml
- Timer: Yes
- Rotary point: Yes
Best for Travel: Burst Water Flosser
- Why we love it: You never know who you will meet on holiday, so it is important to maintain your dental hygiene. For a portable, wireless option, Dr. I recommend this model because of its convenience while traveling. She says: “It’s easy to use and holds a good charge, which is great when you’re on the go.”
- Pressure settings: 3 (standard, turbo and pulse)
- Countertop or wireless: Wireless
- Water tank size: 4 fl. oz.
- Timer: No
- Rotary point: Yes
Best for Dental Devices: Oral-B Water Flosser
- Why we love it: Oral-B reminds us of childhood, which is why we were drawn to this water flosser that combines water pressure and microbubbles to tackle plaque bacteria that can build up along the gum line. “This targeted approach not only helps remove food particles and debris, but also reduces inflammation and irritation, leading to healthier gums,” says Dr. Sands. It complements traditional brushing and flossing by reaching areas that are difficult to clean effectively with a toothbrush alone. “Incorporating this water flosser into your daily routine can improve your oral care, leading to stronger, healthier gums and a reduced risk of periodontal disease.”
- Pressure settings: 3 (intense, medium, sensitive)
- Countertop or wireless: Wireless
- Water tank size: N/A
- Timer: No
- Rotary point: Yes
What is a water flosser?
Think of water flossers as a powerful rinse for your mouth. More specifically, Dr. Sands it as a dental appliance that uses a stream of pulsating water to clean between the teeth and below the gum line. The device typically consists of a handle and a mouthpiece that directs a pressurized stream of water, which “removes food particles and plaque that can contribute to gum disease and cavities,” says Dr. Sands. It’s a fantastic addition to anyone’s oral hygiene routine, but especially useful for those with braces, implants or bridges. (More on that below.)
Who should use it?
“Water flossers are suitable for anyone who wants to improve their oral hygiene, especially for those with braces, implants or bridges, but also for those with gum disease or sensitive gums,” says Dr. Sands. Braces and wires can make it more difficult to keep teeth clean with braces, and dental bridges can be difficult to clean with traditional floss. Dr. Kahng notes that for bridges, a floss threader can be cumbersome, making a water flosser a more convenient solution. Additionally, she says that water flossers are helpful for patients with implants because they effectively help irrigate them.
Are water flossers as effective as dental floss?
“Water flossers can sometimes clean gums better than dental floss, especially since most people don’t use dental floss properly,” says Dr. Kahng. She adds that while dental floss remains the gold standard, many patients get better results with a water flosser because of its ease of use. Dr. Sands agrees, noting that they can be particularly useful for removing plaque and debris from hard-to-reach areas.
That said, both dentists emphasize that a water flosser is not a replacement for dental flossing. You should use both: water flossing is in addition to flossing. “The water flosser cannot reach the tight spaces between your teeth where flossing is necessary. Cavities can develop in those areas, so you still need to floss,” says Dr. Kahng.
How do you use a water flosser?
Dr. Sands explains that to use a water flosser, you must fill the reservoir with water, select the appropriate pressure setting and place the mouthpiece in your mouth. Turn the device on and move the mouthpiece along the gum line and between the teeth, directing the flow to areas where plaque and food particles can build up. To avoid splashes, lean over the sink and keep your mouth slightly open. There are also models that can be connected to the shower if you are concerned about the potential mess.
How often should you use a water flosser?
“It is recommended to use a water flosser at least once a day, ideally before brushing your teeth,” says Dr. Sands. Daily use helps maintain gum health, reduce plaque buildup and improve overall oral hygiene. However, it is important to remember that a water flosser is not a replacement for traditional flossing. “Although water flossers can sometimes be more effective at cleaning the gums than flossing, flossing is still crucial for cleaning between teeth that the water flosser cannot reach,” says Dr. Kahng.
What should you pay attention to in a water flosser?
- Pressure settings: Many water flossers come with different pressure settings. For daily use, Dr. says Kahng that you don’t necessarily need multiple settings, just one that feels comfortable. “Higher pressure settings are useful for a thorough clean, while lower settings are gentler for sensitive gums,” says Dr. Sands.
- Countertop vs. Wireless: Countertop models typically offer more power and larger water tanks, making them ideal for deep cleaning. Cordless models are more convenient for travel and in smaller spaces, although they may have smaller water tanks and less power, explains Dr. Sands out.
- Water tank size: Dr. Sands says a larger water tank means longer use between refills, which is useful for users who prefer to complete their routine without interruptions. Smaller tanks are more compact and easier to store, but may need to be refilled more often.
- Built-in timer: “A built-in timer ensures you spend the recommended amount of time cleaning each part of your mouth, promoting effective use and consistency in your oral care routine,” says Dr. Sands.
- Rotary tip: Some water flossers come with a rotating tip, which makes it easier to reach different parts of the mouth and increases the effectiveness of the flosser, says Dr. Kahng. However, this feature is not essential and largely comes down to personal preference.