Does water flossing count as flossing? Dental professionals view the water flosser as a valuable tool for interdental cleaning, often complementing or serving as an alternative to traditional string floss. Daily cleaning between teeth is required for good oral health, and both string floss (a traditional, non-electric tool) and the water flosser (a powered device using a stream of water) achieve this goal. The choice depends largely on your specific dental needs and ability to use the tool consistently.
Mechanism of Interdental Cleaning
The cleaning action of string floss is fundamentally mechanical, relying on direct contact to scrape away the sticky film of bacteria known as plaque. When used correctly, the floss is wrapped into a “C” shape against the side of the tooth and gently guided from the contact point down toward the gumline. This physical wiping motion is highly effective at shearing the mature plaque biofilm from the smooth surfaces of the teeth.
The water flosser, or oral irrigator, cleans using a hydrodynamic mechanism, employing a pressurized, pulsating stream of water. This rapid pulse of water creates a flushing action. The water stream is directed along the gumline and between the teeth, disrupting and washing away loose debris and bacteria. This flushing action can also penetrate deeper into the shallow gum pockets than string floss typically reaches, helping to dislodge bacteria.
Effectiveness in Plaque and Debris Removal
Traditional string floss is highly effective at removing the tenacious, mature plaque biofilm that adheres tightly to the tooth surface, provided the correct technique is used. The scraping action of the floss physically breaks the bond of this sticky layer from the enamel. This direct-contact method remains the benchmark for manual interdental cleaning.
Water flossers have shown comparable performance, especially concerning gum health. While they may not offer the same scraping action as string, the pulsating water stream excels at reducing gingivitis and gum bleeding. Clinical trials have shown that using a water flosser can result in significantly greater reductions in gingival bleeding compared to string floss.
The American Dental Association (ADA) recognizes water flossers with its Seal of Acceptance, signifying they are safe and effective at removing plaque and reducing gingivitis. Both tools effectively clean between teeth, but they tackle different aspects of oral hygiene. String floss is excellent for scraping the tight contact points, while the water flosser is particularly adept at flushing bacteria from the sulcus and improving gum health.
When Water Flossing is Superior
In certain specific situations, the water flosser is a better, more practical tool for interdental cleaning than string floss. People undergoing orthodontic treatment, such as those with traditional braces, benefit greatly from the water jet. The stream of water easily navigates around the wires and brackets to flush out trapped food particles and plaque, a task that is difficult with traditional floss threaders.
Individuals with complex dental work like bridges, crowns, or implants often find water flossing to be the most effective method. The water stream cleans under fixed bridgework and around implant abutments without the need to thread floss. Water flossers are also recommended for patients with limited dexterity or for those who struggle with the precise technique required for string flossing. The device is less technique-sensitive and provides a gentler experience for people with sensitive or inflamed gums.
Final Recommendations for Your Oral Care Routine
For most people with generally healthy gums and straight teeth, string floss and a water flosser are best viewed as complementary tools, each offering distinct advantages. Using both can provide the most comprehensive clean. If you are consistent with your daily routine, either method is significantly better than doing nothing at all.
If you find string flossing difficult, painful, or you have specific dental hardware, a water flosser is an excellent and effective substitute. Consulting with your dental hygienist can help determine the best tool or combination of tools for your unique oral environment.