You may know how important it is to floss your teeth, but do you do it as often as you’re supposed to? Flossing at least once per day is an important part of maintaining a healthy smile and preventing oral health issues from developing. If you have issues keeping up with flossing, you might be considering an alternative like a Waterpik. But which one is the better option? Read on to learn the most effective way of cleaning between your teeth.
Pros of Dental Floss
Dental floss is effective at removing plaque located between the teeth. It’s also much less expensive than Waterpiks and other water flossers. Additionally, traditional dental floss comes in a range of types and thicknesses to meet the oral health needs of most people.
Cons of Dental Floss
Even so, dental floss still has its disadvantages. It can only properly clean between the teeth if the person using it is utilizing the correct technique. Those who have health conditions that lead to mobility issues may find it difficult to maneuver dental floss. It’s also challenging to use with oral appliances like braces.
Pros of Waterpiks
Water flossers like Waterpiks are gentler than traditional floss. Because of this, they don’t cause the gums to bleed. Additionally, they work better with bridges, braces, and other dental appliances. Waterpiks are also beneficial for those who struggle with using traditional floss due to mobility issues like arthritis.
Cons of Waterpiks
Waterpiks are much less cost-effective than regular dental floss. They also shoot out water which can make things a little messy. Traditional floss is almost more effective at plaque removal than water flossers.
Which One Is Better?
Using a water flosser is better than using nothing at all, but regular floss is the best option for optimal plaque removal. The next time you visit your dentist, ask them for advice on which one better fits your needs. Regular floss is sufficient for most patients, so consider asking them what techniques will yield the best result for your smile.
If you are considering switching from traditional dental floss to a Waterpik, make sure to consult your dentist beforehand. They will be able to provide guidance on which option is best so you can make sure your smile remains and healthy as possible.
About the Practice
Are you a resident of Sparks or a surrounding community who has issues using traditional dental floss? Are you thinking about switching to a Waterpik or another kind of water flosser? Vista Dental Care can help you decide what option is best for you. They can do a thorough examination of your overall dental health to determine the most effective method of cleaning between your teeth. Have questions or want more information on the different kinds of dental floss or Waterpiks? Call Vista Dental Care at (775) 626-3535 or visit their website to learn more or to schedule an appointment with their talented staff.