When it comes to oral hygiene, brushing your teeth is only a part of the equation. Flossing is just as important because it reaches the areas between your teeth that your toothbrush can’t. But with so many flossing options on the market—from traditional string floss to modern tools like water flossers—it can be tough to know which is best for your smile.
In this article, we’ll closely examine the differences between water flossers and traditional flossing and help you decide which method will work best for you.
What is a Water Flosser?
Let’s cover the fundamentals before we compare: what is a water flosser?
A water flosser, mouth flosser, or oral irrigator is a handheld unit that utilizes a pressurized stream of water to remove particles between your teeth and along the gum line.
Unlike regular floss, where you manually slide a string between teeth, a water flosser uses continuous water to force food particles and plaque out of tight spaces.
Why Flossing Matters: Flossing vs Not Flossing
Regardless of which approach you take, the key thing is that you floss. Scientific studies consistently confirm that those who floss regularly tend to have healthier gums and fewer cavities. When you contrast flossing versus not flossing, the distinction is obvious:
- Not flossing enables plaque to build up between teeth, potentially causing cavities, bad breath, and gum disease.
- Daily flossing keeps food bits and plaque out of those tricky areas, safeguarding your teeth and your gums in the long term.
Keeping that in mind, let’s dive into the two leading styles of flossing—classic string floss and water flossers—and determine which one is best for you.
Traditional Flossing: The Gold Standard
Classic string floss is the most popular and inexpensive cleaning method between teeth. Whichever waxed, unwaxed, flavored, or tape-type floss you use, dentists have relied upon this technique for decades.
Pros of Traditional Floss
- Effective removal of plaque – Proper string flossing can physically remove plaque from the sides of the teeth and just below the gumline.
- Easy on the budget – You can purchase dental floss in most grocery and drug stores.
- Portable – You can carry a small bottle of floss with you in your pocket or bag.
Cons of Traditional Floss
- Needs technique – Lousy technique when using floss can leave behind plaque and make your gums sore.
- Time-consuming – Using floss properly may seem like a chore, particularly if you have braces or dental hardware.
- Can be uncomfortable – Some individuals may have bleeding or tender gums if they’re just starting to floss.
Water Flossing: The Modern Approach
A water flosser employs water pressure to do the job for you. It’s particularly well-liked among individuals who have difficulty with regular flossing because of braces, bridges, crowns, or impaired dexterity.
Pros of Water Flossing
- Easy to use – Simply point the tip between your teeth and let the water jet take care of the rest.
- Gentle on gums – The water can gently massage your gum tissue and is less abrasive than string floss.
- Great for hard-to-reach areas – Water can travel around orthodontic brackets, behind molars, and under bridges where string floss has trouble reaching.
- More comfortable for sensitive teeth or gums – Many people with gum sensitivity prefer water flossers.
Cons of Water Flossing
- More expensive – A water flosser requires an upfront investment and ongoing maintenance.
- Takes up counter space – Traditional floss can fit in your pocket; a water flosser usually stays on your bathroom counter.
- Requires power and water source – You’ll need a bathroom sink nearby; some units require electricity or batteries.
Flossing vs Not Flossing: Does It Matter What You Use?
Traditional floss and water flossers are effective at removing plaque and helping prevent gum disease and cavities. In short: flossing vs not flossing is a far greater concern than what tool you use.
However, the best way is one you will use daily. If you despise string floss, then a water flosser may motivate you to floss daily. Conversely, if you’re on the road often and enjoy a fast, easy solution, regular floss is travel-friendly and needs no assembly.
What Do the Studies Say?
Comparative studies between water flossing and conventional flossing indicate that water flossers are as good, if not better, at controlling plaque and gum bleeding.
That doesn’t imply that string floss is useless—it still functions well in an individual with good technique. But water flossers can provide a softer, simpler option for individuals with braces, implants, or periodontal pockets.
At ProSmiles Dental, we are experts at customized oral care advice that fits your lifestyle. Whether you have questions about what a water flosser is, could use assistance mastering your string floss, or are interested in learning more about advanced alternatives, we are here to assist.
