A water flosser (oral irrigator) directs a pressurized, pulsating stream of water to clean between teeth and below the gumline. This technology is recommended for individuals undergoing orthodontic treatment, as braces create numerous surfaces where food debris and plaque can become trapped. Plaque buildup is a concern because brackets and wires significantly impede standard brushing and flossing techniques. Water flossing is therefore an effective supplementary tool for maintaining oral hygiene while wearing fixed appliances.
Advantages of Water Flossing for Orthodontics
Fixed orthodontic appliances—including brackets, bands, and archwires—create complex areas difficult to access with traditional methods. A water flosser uses hydrodynamic power to effectively flush out food particles and loose plaque from these challenging spaces, such as around the bracket bases and under the archwires. This targeted stream reaches regions string floss might miss, helping to prevent white spot lesions (areas of enamel demineralization often observed after braces are removed).
The pulsating water jet provides a gentle massage to the gum tissues, stimulating circulation and helping to reduce gingivitis-related inflammation. Clinical studies indicate that using a water flosser with manual brushing significantly reduces gingival bleeding scores. The ease of use promotes better patient compliance, as navigating string floss around every bracket is frustrating and time-consuming. Using an oral irrigator cuts down the time required for interdental cleaning, making a consistent daily habit more achievable.
Proper Technique When Cleaning with Braces
Effective water flossing requires a specific technique to clean all surfaces surrounding the orthodontic hardware. First, fill the reservoir with lukewarm water, which is more comfortable for sensitive teeth. Begin by setting the device to the lowest pressure setting, especially if you are new to water flossing or if your gums are inflamed.
Lean over the sink and place the tip into your mouth before turning the unit on to minimize splashing. Start with the back teeth and systematically work around the mouth, addressing both the inner and outer surfaces. Aim the water stream at the gumline, holding the tip at a 90-degree angle to the tooth surface.
The technique involves momentarily pausing the stream to thoroughly flush the area immediately above and below each bracket. After cleaning the bracket area, adjust the tip to clean the space between the teeth, ensuring the stream passes completely through the interproximal area. Many devices offer a specialized orthodontic tip, which features a small brush to help physically remove plaque as the water is directed around the wires. Gradually increase the pressure setting only as your comfort level improves and if recommended by your orthodontist.
Water Flossing Versus String Flossing
While water flossing is beneficial for orthodontic patients, its role in the overall oral hygiene routine is sometimes misunderstood. The primary mechanism of a water flosser is hydraulic pressure, which disrupts and flushes away plaque and debris effectively in the obstructed environment of braces. Traditional string floss, when used correctly, physically scrapes sticky plaque biofilm directly off the sides of the tooth surfaces.
Research comparing the two methods suggests that both water flossing and specialized string floss (like Super Floss) are effective in reducing overall plaque scores. However, water flossers are significantly easier to manipulate around the complex hardware, increasing the likelihood that a patient will clean consistently. For individuals with braces, the water flosser is often the preferred tool for interdental cleaning due to its ability to access areas around the wires.
For the most comprehensive cleaning, some dental professionals advocate for incorporating both methods, using the water flosser to handle the bulk of the cleaning around the appliances. Ultimately, the best method is the one a patient will use daily and correctly. For those with fixed orthodontics, the convenience and efficacy of the oral irrigator make it an excellent addition to the daily care regimen.