Keeping your teeth and gums healthy takes more than brushing alone. Daily cleaning between teeth is one of the best ways to prevent cavities and gum disease. But with so many options available, many patients ask: Should I use dental floss or a water flosser?
We believe the best tool is the one you’ll use every day — but understanding the difference can help you choose what’s right for you.
Traditional Dental Floss
Dental floss has been a trusted method for decades. It helps remove plaque and food particles from tight spaces between teeth and just below the gumline — areas your toothbrush simply can’t reach.
Advantages of Traditional Floss:
- Highly effective at removing plaque between tight teeth
- Inexpensive and easy to carry anywhere
- Allows precise control for detailed cleaning
Disadvantages / Considerations:
- Tricky for people with braces, bridges, or crowded teeth
- May be uncomfortable for those with sensitive gums or limited hand dexterity
Water Flossers (Oral Irrigators)
Water flossers, such as Waterpik® or Philips Sonicare Water Flosser, use a stream of water to clean between teeth and along the gumline. They’re gentle, easy to use, and particularly beneficial for patients with braces, dental implants or those with limited manual dexterity
Advantages of Water Flossers:
- Can adjust power setting to what is comfortable for you
- Ideal for braces, bridges, dental implants
- Great for those with limited manual dexterity or with recession in between teeth (large spaces in between teeth where floss alone often cannot clean out any food trapped)
- Can help reduce gum bleeding and inflammation
Considerations:
- More expensive than traditional floss
- Requires water and electricity to operate
- May not remove sticky plaque as effectively as string floss
Which Is Better: Floss or Water Flosser?
Both methods can effectively support good oral hygiene when used correctly. The best choice depends on your dental needs and lifestyle:
- Choose traditional floss if you have healthy gums and want a quick, affordable way to clean between teeth.
- Choose a water flosser if you have braces, implants, sensitive gums or limited manual dexterity—or if traditional flossing is uncomfortable.
- For many patients, a combination of both provides the best results.
Our Recommendation
The most important thing is consistency. Cleaning between your teeth every day helps prevent plaque buildup, gum disease, and bad breath — no matter which tool you prefer.
Our dental team can help you find the best flossing method for your needs. During your hygiene appointment, we’ll demonstrate proper techniques and recommend the right products for your smile.
Book Your Next Dental Visit
Contact us at 604 596-9900 or via email at reception@northdeltadentist.ca today to schedule an appointment to learn more about the best flossing techniques for a brighter, healthier smile.
Dr. Albert Tam Dentist Inc.