How to Use a Water Flosser: Step-by-Step Guide

Are you one of the many people who fear flossing with regular dental floss? You're not alone.

In fact, a study by the American Academy of Periodontology found that 36% of adults would rather do unpleasant things like cleaning toilets than floss every day with traditional dental floss. But if you don't floss, you may be more likely to get periodontal disease and other systemic diseases and conditions that can be deadly.

A water flosser can help in this situation. Not only can it make flossing more fun, but it can also help get food and germs out of hard-to-reach places more effectively.

In this article, we'll show you how to use a water flosser and explain why it's an important part of your oral hygiene routine.

What is a Water Flosser?
A water flosser, also known as an oral irrigator, is a device that uses a stream of pulsating water to remove plaque and food particles from between teeth and along the gumline. It can be a more effective and easier-to-use alternative to traditional dental floss, especially for those with braces, sensitive gums, or limited dexterity. Water flossers come in a variety of sizes and strengths and can help improve overall oral hygiene and reduce the risk of gum disease and tooth decay.

So, just how important is water flossing?

Continue reading.

The Importance of Using a Water Flosser
Research shows that water flossing is an important part of good oral hygiene and lowers the chance of gum disease and cavities. In a study done by the American Dental Association, people who used a water flosser along with brushing their teeth had 29 percent less bleeding and 26 percent less gum disease than people who only brushed.

Also, a review of several studies that were published in the Journal of Clinical Periodontology found that using a water flosser was more successful than regular flossing at getting rid of plaque and improving gum health. The study also says that water flossing is less likely to cause bleeding or pain than regular flossing, which makes it a better choice for many people.

People who have orthodontic devices like braces can also benefit from a water flosser because it can help get food and trash out of places that are hard to reach. It may also be good for people with sensitive teeth or gums because the water flow can be changed. This makes it easier and more comfortable to clean your teeth.

In addition to making your mouth healthier, taking care of your teeth can lower your chance of developing several systemic diseases and conditions that could kill you. So using a flosser as part of your oral care routine might help you in more ways than just making your smile look better.

Next, let's take a look at how to use a water flosser correctly.

How to Use a Water Flosser
Using a water flosser can be an effective way to remove food particles and plaque from between your teeth and along your gum line. Here are the detailed steps on how to use a water flosser:

Step 1: Choose the right tip

Water flossers come with different tips for different purposes, such as general use, orthodontics, or gum massage. Choose the tip that is best for your needs and attach it to the handle.

Step 2: Fill the reservoir

Fill the water flosser's reservoir with warm water. You can also add mouthwash or other oral care solutions to the water if desired.

Step 3: Adjust the pressure

Start the water flosser on the lowest pressure setting and gradually increase it to the level that feels comfortable to you.

Step 4: Lean over the sink.

Lean over the sink and place the tip of the water flosser in your mouth. Close your lips around the tip to prevent splashing.

Step 5: Start the water flow.

Turn on the water flosser and let the water flow out of your mouth into the sink. Begin with the back teeth and work your way forward, aiming the tip at the gumline at a 90-degree angle.

Step 6: Move along the gum line

Gently guide the tip along your gumline, pausing briefly between teeth to allow the water to remove any food particles or plaque. Angle the tip toward your gumline, making sure to get under it, but don't point it directly at your gums.

Step 7: Clean all sides of each tooth.

Make sure to clean the front, back, and top of each tooth, angling the tip slightly toward each surface as you move along.

Step 8: Rinse and clean the water flosser.

Once you have finished flossing, turn off the water flosser and spit the water into the sink. Remove the tip from the handle and rinse both the tip and handle thoroughly under running water. Empty any remaining water from the reservoir and wipe the water flosser dry.

With regular use, a water flosser can help improve your overall oral hygiene and reduce your risk of gum disease and tooth decay.

But it's still not over. Dentists say that you should clean your water flosser after each use. Here are the steps you need to take to clean your water flosser.

How to Clean a Water Flosser
Here are the four key points for cleaning your water flosser:

Disassemble the flosser and rinse the parts under running water to remove any loose debris and bacteria.
Soak the tip in a mixture of warm water and vinegar or hydrogen peroxide for 5–10 minutes to disinfect it.
Use a soft-bristled brush to scrub the inside of the reservoir with a mild soap solution.
Dry all parts thoroughly before reassembling the water flosser and storing it in a clean, dry place.
It is recommended to clean your water flosser after each use to prevent the buildup of bacteria and debris. By following these steps, you can keep your water flosser clean and in good condition for longer use.

In Conclusion
In conclusion, incorporating a water flosser into your daily oral care routine can greatly improve the health of your gums and teeth. By using the step-by-step guide provided in this article, you can ensure that you are using your water flosser correctly and getting the most out of this powerful tool. With regular use, you may notice a significant improvement in the appearance and health of your smile. So, if you haven't already, consider investing in a water flosser and making it part of your daily oral care routine.