In life, there are many age-old questions. Which came first, the chicken or the egg? Which is better, chocolate or vanilla? Or, when it comes to your oral health, which works best, dental floss or a water irrigator? If you’ve been wondering what the bottom line is when it comes to protecting your smile, here’s a closer look at these popular methods for flossing your teeth, and which one is the most effective.
What is a Water Irrigator?
A water irrigator or water flosser is an electric or battery-operated electric unit that sprays water in a concentrated stream to clean food and plaque off your teeth. The pressurized water acts like dental floss, pushing the food and debris from between the teeth and off things like braces, Invisalign bumps, and permanent retainers.
Which is Better – Floss or Water Irrigators?
Depending on who you ask, either method works well. Some studies have shown that dental floss is more effective, but others have found that water irrigation is better. The important thing is that you floss, and the good news is that both methods are both very good choices for doing just that. Water irrigation is best for people with oral equipment and can be helpful if you have dexterity issues, but which method you choose ultimately comes down to personal preferences. After all, if you don’t like flossing or find it difficult or uncomfortable, you are less likely to do it regularly. Thus, if water flossing is easier and more enjoyable, your dentist would rather you do that than nothing at all.
Things to Remember
No matter which method you choose, it is important to use it as a part of your complete oral hygiene routine, not as the whole. This means you should still brush your teeth twice a day, visit your dentist twice a year, and whether you irrigate or floss, do it at least once a day, more so if you have orthodontic equipment or prosthetics like dental implants.
About Dr. Puneet Sandhu
Dr. Puneet Sandhu, DDS is the owner and lead dentist at Complete Dental Care Paradise Valley in Phoenix, AZ. A graduate of the University of Arizona where he completed his degree in physiology with a minor in chemistry in just three years, he went on to earn his dental degree from UCLA. Dr. Sandhu is a faculty member of Spear Education, the world’s largest dental education organization, and holds a Fellowship with the International Dental Implant Association as well as memberships with the American Dental Association, Arizona Dental Association, and Central Arizona Dental Society. Known for his warm, easy-going approach and his belief that patients are true partners in their own care, his clinical focus is full mouth reconstruction and comprehensive restorative dentistry. Outside the office, Dr. Sandhu enjoys Cardinals and Giants football and spending time with his family.
To schedule an exam and cleaning at Complete Dental Care, please visit our website or call us today at 480-526-4317.
