Could Flossing be Easier?

By: Stephen Price DDS | Wednesday, November 15th, 2017 | General Dentistry

Wednesday, November 15th, 2017

Most people we meet are interested in maintaining a smile that is warm and welcoming. There is an inherent understanding, it seems, that an attractive smile is a valuable asset. There’s more, though. A healthy mouth is the basis of that attractiveness, and also a very important aspect of general health and wellness. To keep the smile healthy and looking (and smelling) good takes effort. So, we learn that we should brush our teeth morning and night and that we should floss to make sure debris and bacteria do not collect in between teeth. The problem is, flossing is tedious. As such, this is a practice that a lot of people skip.

Is Water the Answer?

There may be a solution to the whole “it’s a chore” aspect of flossing. It all comes down to technique. Over time, tools to make the process easier has been developed. The Waterpik, or oral irrigator, is one of them. Here, we want to point out why water may be a good alternative to flossing in some cases.

An oral irrigator works by directing a steady, pressurized stream of water into the mouth. This stream is self-directed by the user and can be adjusted for more or less pressure. The movement of the water-stream in between teeth and across the gum line mimics the action of floss, only easier.

Waterpik use may be ideal for older adults whose dexterity may have declined due to arthritis or other reasons. This tool can improve the performance and efficacy of oral care for people with bridgework, braces, crowns, and dental implants, as well.

What You Need to Know

If you are considering switching up your flossing routine, a Waterpik is certainly worth consideration. This is especially relevant for the abovementioned situations, and for instances in which flossing just doesn’t get done because, well, “it’s a chore.” What is important to know about oral irrigation as opposed to flossing is that water may be slightly less effective at removing all plaque that exists around the base of teeth. It may help to add a few drops of anti-bacterial oral rinse to the water reservoir or to floss and irrigate.

Home care is complemented by routine exams and cleanings in the dental office. To schedule your visit with your Burke dentist, call (703)-935-2879.