Flossing plays a key role in our oral health, but only 40% of Americans floss every day—and at least 20% don’t floss at all. There are a variety of reasons why people choose not too floss. Some find it difficult, dull, or even painful. Many people have difficulty properly maneuvering dental floss. Unfortunately, people who do not floss have a significantly greater risk of developing gum disease which can ultimately lead to tooth decay.

Read on to learn more about water flossing and how it can help you level up your oral hygiene routine.

What Is Water Flossing?

Water flossing—also referred to as oral irrigation—is a great option for individuals who have trouble flossing in the traditional way using dental floss. Using a steady jet of water for flossing your gums and between your teeth is nothing new—the first water flossing device was invented by a Colorado dentist in the early 1960s. That device ultimately became the most well-known brand for water flossing: WaterPik.

With a device to practice water flossing, a constant stream of water concentrated on the gum line from a small nozzle allows you to thoroughly clean your gums. Much like using regular dental floss, the stream of water allows you to eliminate food particles and plaque from below your gum line.

How Effective Is Water Flossing?

According to a research study performed in Canada in 2013, it was discovered that water flossing was very effective at enabling people to remove food particles and plaque from between their teeth. It also revealed that when people brushed their teeth and practiced water flossing, they saw a 74.4% reduction in plaque in their mouths.

However, despite these findings, many dentists don’t advise patients to switch from flossing with traditional dental floss to water flossing. It’s believed that the scraping involved with traditional flossing is still the most effective way to fully eliminate food particles and plaque from between the teeth and under the gum line. Still, water flossing is an excellent addition to regular oral hygiene practices and can help even more in combating plaque buildup. It can greatly improve dental health, especially for those individuals who struggle with traditional flossing methods.

Speak with Your Dentist

Be sure to consult with your dentist before incorporating water flossing into your daily oral care routine. You will be able to get helpful advice on which water flosser might work best for you, and the dentist will also tell you about the best techniques you can use to improve your overall oral health.

Contact Patriot Family Dental for more information on water flossing or to speak with one of our dental care practitioners.