Dental hygiene is paramount. In an age where fizzy drinks and high-sugar snacks dominate the market, keeping our teeth in good condition is seemingly harder than ever before: but that’s just the tip of the iceberg.
Private dentistry is becoming commonplace, and it’s estimated that over four in five NHS dental practices are not accepting new patients. With many of us being forced to wait longer to get our teeth checked, caring for them is crucial.
Whether you use one every day or you’ve never heard of one, a water flosser could help you to look after your teeth between appointments. We’ve explained why you should get one in this guide.
What is a water flosser?
A water flosser is a handheld device that points a stream of water at your teeth. Also known as a dental water jet or an oral irrigator, these devices play a handy role in removing food particles stuck between your teeth, plus removing some plaque.
For those with sensitive teeth, perhaps because of tooth decay or other underlying conditions, water flossers make a gentler option than traditional tools and techniques. Ideal for delicate yet effective teeth cleaning, many people change from ordinary dental floss to using a water flosser.
Along with gentle cleansing, there are several distinct benefits to using water flossers.
Three reasons to use a water flosser
- Braces and implants
Anyone who wears braces knows that dental hygiene can feel like a struggle. Likewise, for those with dental implants, some dental products can be too rough or abrasive.
If you have anything in your mouth besides your natural teeth, it’s important to use gentle products that protect your gum health too. Even brushing too aggressively could compromise the soft tissues near your teeth. Fortunately, water flossers remove the need for floss threaders and aggressive brushing styles.
- Plaque removal
It’s important not to let plaque build up on your teeth.
This white, sticky substance is caused by food particles building up in one place on your tooth. It hardens very quickly and becomes tartar, which could be damaging for your teeth. Plaque and tartar could eventually cause your gums to bleed, making it harder to brush!
Using a water flosser helps you to keep on top of your plaque and address it before it poses a risk to your dental health. Furthermore, because a water flosser directs water into your mouth, you can make sure even the most hard-to-reach spaces get covered too.
- Issues with dental floss
Lastly, if plain dental floss keeps getting stuck in your teeth or you find it difficult to handle, using a water flosser could simplify your oral hygiene routine. It’s recommended to clean between your teeth at least one a day. If your flossing routine has fallen behind, trying a water flosser could help you to get back on track.
Furthermore, dental floss is single-use and often not made from recyclable materials. With a water flosser, you’ll cut back on consumable items while making your hygiene routine even easier.