A water flosser, also known as an oral irrigator, is a handheld device that uses a pulsating stream of pressurized water to clean between teeth and below the gumline. This technology is highly recommended for individuals with braces because it offers a more effective and less frustrating method of cleaning than traditional string floss. The gentle water jet navigates the complex structure of orthodontic hardware with ease.
The Challenge of Flossing with Braces
The introduction of brackets, wires, and bands creates a complex environment where food debris and plaque easily become trapped. These orthodontic components create numerous small surfaces and tight spaces that are difficult for toothbrush bristles to reach, and nearly impossible for standard string floss to access. Using string floss correctly requires threading it under the archwire between every pair of teeth, which is a time-consuming and often frustrating process.
Skipping this step, or performing it inadequately, allows bacterial plaque to accumulate rapidly around the hardware. This buildup leads to gingivitis, characterized by red, swollen, and bleeding gums, which is common during orthodontic treatment. Prolonged plaque accumulation also causes demineralization of the tooth enamel next to the brackets, resulting in permanent white spots, or decalcification, noticeable once the braces are removed.
How Water Flossers Address Orthodontic Needs
A water flosser overcomes the physical barriers presented by braces by employing a pulsating stream of water to flush away debris and plaque. The device creates a jet that reaches areas inaccessible to manual methods, such as the space under the archwire and the tight spots between the bracket and the tooth surface. This fluid dynamic action removes food particles that brushing alone misses, reducing the overall plaque load.
Specialized orthodontic tips are available for many water flosser models, often featuring a tapered end or small bristles designed to enhance cleaning around the brackets and wires. These tips gently scrub the bracket while the water irrigates the surrounding area. Studies have shown that this method can be up to 29% more effective than string floss in removing plaque and is better at reducing gingivitis and gingival bleeding in orthodontic patients.
Essential Techniques for Optimal Results
Using a water flosser requires a systematic approach to ensure every area around the braces is cleaned. The process begins with filling the reservoir, ideally with lukewarm water, as this is more comfortable for sensitive gums. Select the lowest pressure setting initially, and gradually increase the intensity to a level that feels effective yet comfortable.
Correct tip positioning is crucial: place the tip inside your mouth and lean over the sink before turning the device on to avoid splashing. The tip must be aimed at a 90-degree angle to the gumline, tracing the border where the tooth meets the gum tissue. Systematically work from your back teeth toward the front, moving the tip slowly along the gumline and around each bracket.
For each tooth, pause briefly to allow the water stream to flush out debris from above and below the bracket and the archwire. Ensure you clean both the outer surfaces of the teeth—where the braces are mounted—and the inner surfaces. This methodical, tooth-by-tooth approach ensures comprehensive cleaning and is less time-consuming than traditional threading.
Water Flossers and Overall Oral Health
Beyond cleaning the orthodontic hardware, the pulsating action of the water stream offers a therapeutic benefit to the gum tissue. This gentle massaging stimulates circulation, which helps reduce the redness, swelling, and bleeding associated with gum inflammation. For many people with braces, tender gums are a persistent complaint, and the non-abrasive nature of the water flosser offers a gentler alternative to physical scraping with string floss.
While the water flosser is a powerful tool for dislodging food and plaque, it functions best as a complement to other oral hygiene habits. It is not a complete replacement for thorough brushing with a soft-bristled or electric toothbrush, as brushing remains necessary to remove surface plaque. For comprehensive care, some dental professionals suggest occasionally using interdental brushes or traditional string floss with a threader to clean the tight contact points between adjacent teeth.