Search

How Often Should You Use a Water Flosser? | What do Dental Experts Recommend?

If you're concerned about improving your oral health and reducing plaque between your teeth, it may be time to invest in a water flosser. A water flosser, also known as an oral irrigator, uses high-pressure water to effectively clean your teeth, gums, and mouth. You may have heard that people who use these devices have healthier teeth and gums than those who don't.

 

Key Takeaways

  • A water flosser can be a convenient tool for dental hygiene, but it isn't as vital as regular brushing and flossing. Use it when necessary
  • If your teeth are relatively healthy and there isn’t any tartar build-up, using a Waterpik water flosser on them may be unnecessary daily
  • Only use it once or twice a week if your mouth is in good condition and you need an extra push to maintain your oral health

  • The recommended frequency will depend on the severity of plaque buildup


You can try Dr. Brite’s water flosser to get your teeth and gums cleaner than ever before. It's easy to use and works in just 60 seconds to give you healthier teeth. It includes three unique tips to fit your and your mouth's needs. The water flosser targets plaque and debris for healthier teeth and gums.

It cleanses the bacteria and plaque buildup that accumulates on your teeth each day and irritates your gums, and could even be used to remove tonsil stones for that matter.

Get 15% Off with discount code (use at checkout): BLOG15

How Often Should You Use a Water Flosser?

A Water Flosser is an electric device that shoots out water to remove large chunks of food particles and plaque between teeth. You can use it to mitigate getting gum disease, thereby improving your dental health and other health benefits. 

Water flossers also play a crucial role in keeping periodontal disease at bay. They're known for their ability to thoroughly clean where traditional string floss falls short.

That said, not all Water Flossers are created equal. Some are better than others, so it's important to know what makes them different before making a purchase.

If you have questions about whether or not you should use one, read on. We have answers.

a person using a water flosser

How It Works

A water flosser uses high-pressure streams of water to blast out food debris between your teeth. These high-pressure blasts can even dislodge tartar buildup that has built up on your teeth for years. 

However, research has shown that it works best if combined with brushing and interdental cleaners. A water flosser may be worth trying if you have an existing dental phobia or don't want to put more pressure on your gums than necessary.

But keep in mind that it isn't going to do all of your dental work for you—you still need regular checkups and cleanings from your dentist.

Do You Brush Your Teeth Before or After Using a Water Floss?

Dental professionals debate whether to brush your teeth before or after using a water flosser. Some argue that flossing first can dislodge anyfood caught in between your teeth and make it more likely that you'll get bits of food in your mouth when brushing your teeth. 

The other camp says that brushing first can reduce swelling on your gum and thus make it easier to reach those hard-to-reach places with your toothbrush. Ultimately, though, there's no right or wrong answer—it all comes down to personal preference. 

For example, it might be worth brushing beforehand if you find yourself distracted by hunger pangswhile trying to floss. If not, then do what works best for you.

water flosser and toothbrushes by the sink

Benefits of Using a Water Flosser for Your Oral Health

A Waterpik water flosser is much better than traditional string dental brushes at removing plaque. There are several benefits of using a water flosser:

Fresh Breath

It leaves your breath smelling fresh and clean, unlike string dental brushes, which can leave your breath with an unpleasant odor.

The main reason for bad breath is food trapped between teeth and gum lines that aren't removed during brushing. A Waterpik water flosser will quickly and easily remove these particles, leaving your mouth refreshed.

Improved Dental Health Against Gum Disease

A Waterpik water flosser is better at removing plaque from in-between teeth where traditional toothbrushes cannot reach. Using a Waterpik water flosser regularly prevents gum disease and improves dental health.

Less Painful Brushing

A Waterpik water flosser is much less painful than string dental brushes, as it doesn't scrape against your gum, causing irritation or bleeding.

It shoots a stream of water at high pressure between your teeth and along your gum line to remove food particles that aren't removed by brushing alone.

Improved Oral Hygiene

Unlike string dental brushes, a Waterpik water flosser is much better at removing plaque and improving oral hygiene.

They remove food debris from areas that brushing alone cannot reach, helping to prevent gum disease and improve overall dental health.

You should also clean your water flosser after every use, as it helps prevent the buildup of plaque or bacteria in your unit.

Get 15% Off with discount code (use at checkout): BLOG15

Can Regular Floss Damage Your Teeth or Gums?

A water flosser can effectively strengthen your gum, but using it correctly is essential. Overusing your water flosser might cause more harm than good.

If you are suffering from gum disease, talk to your dentist about your oral hygiene. Most dentists recommend proper water flosser techniques, such as avoiding pressing too hard or scrubbing too vigorously with your device.

Also, if you are sharing a water flosser with someone, take all necessary hygienic precautions, as you are exposing yourself and the other person to bacteria from both mouths.

Best Way to Use a Water Flosser

Use twice a day for optimal results. It would help if you brush twice daily, once with your regular or electric toothbrush and toothpaste, then again with your Waterpik water flosser. 

Some people prefer to complete their routine using mouthwash after brushing or rinsing. 

However, it's important to note that mouthwash may contain alcohol, which can dry out your gum and make your dental work more vulnerable to disease-causing bacteria. There should be no issues if you don't overdo it on the mouthwash.

Is It Essential For Me To Floss My Teeth?

It would help if you were using your water flosser to improve your dental work hygiene twice daily. First thing in the morning and right before bed. 

At Dr. Brite, our oral health products are essential for improving your dental care. Our water flosser is perfect for those with braces or other orthodontic work appliances because it will clean between them and around them without damaging them.

Get 15% Off with discount code (use at checkout): BLOG15

a woman using water flosser

FAQs

How Often Should I Use a Water Flosser?

How often you water floss depends on your dental work, oral hygiene routine, and how often you see your dentist for professional cleanings. Regular flossing is recommended after brushing and flossing as part of an effective home care routine if you have implants, crowns or bridges, or gum disease.

Should I Floss First or Brush First?

Flossing then brushing or vice versa depends on your schedule and personal preference. If you have time in your morning routine, it's best to brush first before water flossing; however, if you are short on time, it's acceptable to floss first and brush afterward.

How Do I Know When It's Time to Replace My Flosser?

Dental experts recommend replacing your water flosser every 3-6 months, depending on how frequently you use it and how well it is cared for. It will help in caring for your dental work.

How Do I Clean My Water Flosser?

We recommend you thoroughly rinse your mouthpiece under warm running water after each use and allow it to air dry in an open area, out of direct sunlight, before using it again.



Search