Our mouths form a natural film of plaque over the teeth throughout the day thanks to oral bacteria. Because of this, we practice oral hygiene to remove this residue and keep our smiles clean and healthy. Daily flossing is a major component of any good oral hygiene routine.
Traditional flossing involves using waxed string to scrub away harmful particles that collect between the teeth. While this remains an effective oral hygiene tool, dentists also suggest using water flossers for a new and enhanced way to clean between your teeth. Read on to learn more about this flossing tool and how it can benefit your oral health.
Comparing Traditional Dental Floss and Water Flossers
To use traditional dental floss, you use a piece of floss about 18 inches in length. You maneuver it between each of your teeth, rubbing gently against the surface of the tooth. This will scrub away plaque and other residues that can accumulate there, where a toothbrush cannot easily reach.
A water flosser is a device that generates an irrigated stream of water that you aim between the teeth to clean this part of your smile. This tool offers more options for you to clean your teeth. It features different tips where the water comes out, which you can exchange depending on your oral health needs.
For instance, you can choose a standard tip, one designed to navigate around oral appliances like braces, and one made to target deep in the gum pockets. This variety ensures you get the level of preventative dental care that you require to ensure your smile looks and feels its best. You can also control the level of pressure and speed of the water from the device.
Water flossers might make more of a mess if you are not careful because the water can splash. But you can avoid spraying water around the bathroom when you know how to use your water flosser correctly.
How to Use a Water Flosser
A water flosser works at its best when you use it with purpose and proper technique. Consider using this device in front of a mirror. This way, you can see where to aim the water stream for an optimal clean. Choose your desired flosser tip and begin with a low-pressure setting on your device. Then adjust it according to your comfort level.
To avoid splashing water and making a mess while using the flosser, complete flossing while leaning over a sink. Keep the tip of the flosser under your lips so that you can allow water to flow easily from your mouth to the sink as you floss. Consider using a cordless water flosser that you can use in the shower for an even further reduced risk of mess.
To learn more about water flossers and the impact they can have on your oral health, contact your dentist today. You can reach the staff at your dental practice in Nederland, TX online or by phone at 409.215.2035.