You probably know the essential dental hygiene practices if you care about oral health. You’re aware that you should brush your teeth twice daily, floss once daily, and so on. However, did you know there’s more than one way when it comes to flossing? Besides using the traditional string, you could also clean between your teeth with a Waterpik. That said, you may want to know which of these two methods is better for dental care. Luckily, your Rockwall dentist can help. Read on to learn the strengths and weaknesses of dental floss and Waterpiks.
Dental Floss
For most people, dental floss doesn’t need much of an introduction. It’s a string that removes food particles, plaque, and other debris between teeth. Since WWII, floss has been made from multiple nylon filaments twisted together to create a stronger strand.
Strengths
If nothing else, floss is good at its intended purpose. It effectively cleans each tooth and is easy to maneuver and control. As a result, it can clean places that your toothbrush might miss.
Weaknesses
On the other hand, floss does have some downsides. For one, it can sometimes struggle to clean hard-to-reach areas of the mouth. Floss can also have a hard time getting between overlapping teeth. Lastly, it can rather easily make your gums bleed.
Waterpik
The more modern alternative to string-based flossing, Waterpiks use a pressurized stream of water to remove food particles, bacteria, and such. It was invented in 1962 by a Colorado dentist helped by a hydraulic engineer.
Strengths
Waterpiks are easy to use, and they can get into hard-to-reach areas regular floss can’t. It can even clean between tightly-spaced teeth.
Given these features, a Waterpik could be useful for those who wear braces, have crowns or dental implants, or suffer from arthritis.
Weaknesses
The weaknesses of Waterpiks tend to be based on practicality. Namely, the tool can be messy and expensive to buy.
Which Is Better?
Between these two flossing methods, the better one is ultimately the one you use consistently. After all, they’re both excellent ways to care for teeth and gums.
For instance, many people like the control aspect of manual flossing. If that appeals to you, traditional floss might be ideal.
Meanwhile, others love the fresh, clean feeling they get after using a Waterpik. If you consequently like this tool more, feel free to use it.
Whatever you decide, talk with your dentist about any concerns. They can help confirm the best choice for you.
About the Practice
Spillman Family Dental is based in Rockwall, TX. As led by Dr. Travis Spillman, the practice embodies excellent dental care in a comfortable and honest setting. That said, its staff offers preventive, cosmetic, and restorative dentistry, not to mention emergency dental treatments. They’re also certified providers of dental sedation and Invisalign aligning trays. For more information or to book an appointment, you can reach them at their website or by phone at (972)-945-0887.