Have you heard of a water flosser? This innovative handheld dental gadget sprays streams of water in steady pulses to remove food debris and plaque from between teeth, just like traditional floss. The at-home periodontics tool, also called an “oral irrigator”, is becoming more and more popular and is now available at many nationwide retailers for fairly affordable prices. But does water flossing live up to the hype? Is it worth the splurge? And more importantly, is it beneficial for your teeth and gums? We’re detailing more about this tool below, including which flossers get our nod of approval.
Taking care of your gums is just as important as taking care of your teeth. Choosing an Austin dentist who is experienced in periodontics, or dental services for the gums, can help ensure your entire mouth is healthy and well cared for. Dr. Helen Ragsdale, Austin’s Laser Dentist, offers experience and skill for patients looking to improve their periodontal health. She can treat periodontal disease, and offer cosmetic gum treatments, using advanced laser technology. This not only improves patient comfort, but can speed healing for a quicker recovery. If you are looking to improve your gum health, contact our Austin practice at 512-346-4690.
The Importance of Flossing
There’s a reason dentists advise a daily floss; flossing can remove hard-to-reach food debris and plaque that can get wedged between teeth. If not properly removed, this trapped debris can expedite tooth decay and lead to gum irritation or infection. While brushing can clean the majority of your teeth’s surfaces, flossing is necessary to fully reach all the vulnerable areas of teeth and gums.
Water Flossing
Water flossing is simply a newer way to reach those hard-to-reach nooks and crannies of the mouth. Water flossing is not necessary for good oral hygiene; traditional floss can still do the job perfectly well. But for many patients, water flossing is a way to more comfortably deep clean teeth and gums. Since plaque and food debris between teeth are water soluble, water flossing (which is just a high-pressured stream of water) can effectively remove these particles.
The Benefits of Water Flossing
Water flossers are a good option for those patients who dislike using traditional floss, or find it tricky to maneuver between teeth. It can also make flossing much easier for patients who have orthodontia, or restorative work such as bridges or dental crowns. The steady pulses of water can also help to massage gum tissue which improves circulation and overall gum tissue vitality.
Which water flosser is best? When it comes to picking out a flosser, choose one of these models which have received the American Dental Association Seal of Approval. Note that water flossers do have additional upkeep, when compared to traditional floss; water flossers need to be regularly plugged in and charged just like powered toothbrushes, and can take up more counter space in your bathroom. However, our team thinks water flossers are a great tool for those patients looking for an easy and comfortable way to floss. If water flossing helps you to floss more regularly, it’s definitely worth the investment!
Periodontics for a Healthier, Cleaner Mouth
When it comes to your oral health, don’t skip flossing. Whether you prefer to stick to traditional flossing, or are excited to try water flossing, the important thing is that you use some sort of flossing method each night to remove the day’s plaque and debris. Flossing prevents periodontal disease and tooth decay. Spend the extra couple minutes each evening and floss your way to better health!
To schedule a periodontics appointment or dental cleaning and exam, contact our office today.
