A water flosser is a dental health appliance that you can use at home, just like traditional floss. The main reason why most people choose a water flosser is because they do not like string floss or they find string flossing difficult. Flossing is not an alternative to brushing, but an adjuvant to your daily oral hygiene routine, so everyone should have the floss that fits their daily needs.
Most water flossers come with a motor with a pump, a water reservoir, and a special water flosser tip. The motor and pump cause a stream of pressurized, pulsating water to flow from the reservoir through the tip and into the mouth. Then the targeted stream of water removes plaque, food particles, and bacteria in a way that’s supplementarily effective, more comfortable, and easier to use than traditional string floss. The pulsating action of a water flosser will give you additional stimulation of your gum tissue for added health benefits.
Just like string flossing, water flosser is a great tool for gum disease prevention and treatment. Water flossers have been clinically proven to reduce gingivitis, remove plaque, and improve gum health. They are especially useful for cleaning braces and other orthodontics, like permanent retainers, as well as cleaning bridges, crowns, and dental implants.
Water flossers are also a great innovation for people with dexterity issues, such as arthritis or tendinitis, who find string flossing physically challenging. In comparison to string floss, water flossing is simpler and will not require you to put your hands in your mouth. String floss requires a bit of physical strength the water flosser replaces.
Water flossing is a fun way to floss in these easy steps:
- First, you fill the reservoir with lukewarm water (careful, don’t burn yourself!),
- Then place the reservoir on the base, pressing down firmly to ensure full seating,
- Carefully select the tip and press firmly into the handle,
- Now, if it is your first use, set the pressure control dial to high,
- Then point the tip into the sink and turn on until water flows, and then turn unit off,
- We recommend you start at a low pressure, but you can control the pressure,
- To avoid making too much of a mess, you should lean over your sink and then place the tip in your mouth,
- Now, you can turn it on,
- For the best results, close your lips to prevent splashing, while allowing water to flow from mouth into your sink,
- Begin with your back teeth, and pause briefly between teeth, aiming the tip just above the gum line at a 90-degree angle,
- Lastly, when you are finished, turn unit off and use the tip eject button to remove the tip.
Finding out what dental products are best for you can be tricky. But, not for those of you in Las Colinas of Irving, Texas, because you have us! For all your dental hygiene and dental cleaning needs, contact us today at Cosmetic & Family Dentistry.
