Maintaining good oral hygiene is essential to keep your teeth and gums healthy. You will also be amazed to know that you have a 20% higher chance of having heart disease if you have poor gum health or gum disease!
Therefore, regular brushing, as well as flossing, are crucial for overall well-being. It is best to floss at least once daily to avoid gum-related problems. There are various health benefits of flossing, including:
- Low risk of cavities
- Low bad breath-causing bacteria
- Lessens the likelihood of sore and puffy gums
- Helps prevent gingivitis
- Keeps teeth healthy and bright
All these benefits minimize the potential risks of gum diseases and ensure a healthy smile.
With the advancement of dental technology, more ways to floss are available.
This includes,
- Water Flossers
- Floss picks
- Air flossers
- Super floss
- Waxed and un-waxed thread
In this blog, we will compare the two most popular flossing methods- water flossers and traditional floss to help you decide the best option.
What is a Water Flosser?
A water flosser is a way of flossing that uses a high-pressure stream of water to remove plaque and food debris stuck between your teeth and below the gum line. Additionally, you can also adjust the water pressure to suit your preferences. The water flosser typically comes with a reservoir that needs to be filled with water and a handle with a nozzle that directs the water stream.
Pros and Cons of Water Flossers
Pros:
- They are easy to use and can be less time-consuming than conventional floss.
- Water flossers can be a good option for those with braces or other dental appliances that make traditional flossing difficult.
Cons:
- Water flossers can be more expensive than traditional floss.
- They require an electrical outlet or batteries to function, which can be inconvenient for travel.
- If water pressure is high it can separate the gum away from the tooth and create gum recessions and possible gum abscesses
- The water stream can be messy and may require a clean-up afterward.
What is Floss?
Floss is a thin thread-like material that cleans the gap between teeth and removes food particles from areas of the mouth that do not get thoroughly cleaned with a toothbrush. Floss can be waxed or unwaxed, flavored or unflavored, and comes in various materials such as nylon, silk, or Gore-Tex.
Pros and Cons of Traditional Floss
Pros:
- Traditional floss is widely available and relatively inexpensive.
- Floss can be easily carried in a purse or pocket for on-the-go use.
Cons:
- Traditional floss can be time-consuming and difficult for some people to use.
- It may cause discomfort or bleeding for those with sensitive gums.
- Conventional floss may only effectively reach some areas of the mouth.
Water Flosser Vs. Floss: Which is the Best Option for You?
Choosing between water and traditional flossers depends on your needs and preferences. If you have difficulty using conventional floss or have dental appliances that make it difficult, a water flosser may be a better option. However, if you prefer the simplicity and convenience of traditional floss, it may be the better option for you.
In conclusion, both water flossers and traditional floss have pros and cons. Maintaining good oral hygiene by regularly brushing and flossing and choosing the best option is essential. In case you are still deciding which option will work best for your dental needs, contact us for dentist in Roswell, GA, or nearby areas such as Sandy Springs, Marietta, Milton, Alpharetta, Dunwoody, or Woodstock; call (678) 321-7575 or check our website to book an appointment.