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I recently got my teeth cleaned by a dental hygienist who’s super passionate about water flossers. She explained how they’re more effective than traditional floss and why I (and everyone else) should use them. She was so convincing I tried one that same night. |
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Well, I’ve been using a water flosser before bed ever since, and I can confidently say she was right: Water flossers are better. Learn why below. |
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But first, a quick pit stop for some must-read health stories: |
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Be well,
Morgan Mandriota
Newsletter Editor, Healthline |
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Written by Morgan Mandriota
May 17, 2024 • 4 min read |
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| The tool that finally got me to floss my teeth every night |
💦 How do water flossers work? Water flossers, also known as oral irrigators, use a pressurized stream of water to help remove food particles, bacteria, and plaque between your teeth and gums. All you need to do is fill the reservoir with water, turn it on (once it’s in your mouth), pick an intensity level, then trace along the top and bottom rows of your teeth and gums.
🏆 Potential perks over string floss. Dental floss may be affordable, but it can cause gums to bleed and be hard to get between tightly spaced teeth and under the gums. While water flossers are more expensive, they last longer and easily target those tough-to-reach places, especially if you have braces, crowns, or dental implants. I’ve found that using one helps keep my mouth fresher longer (including better morning breath!), is less harsh on my gumline, and saves a ton of time and energy. It literally takes me 1 minute every night!
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🩵 Hacks from my hygienist. The first time I ever tried a water flosser, I sprayed water all around my bathroom. If that’s happened to you, trust you’re not alone. Shout-out to my dental hygienist for sharing these tips, which transformed (read: improved) the way I floss:
- Try warmer water. If using cold water is too jarring, turn up the temperature. The sensation may be less intense.
- Floss by feeling. There’s no need to stare at yourself in the mirror. Going slow while looking down into the sink can improve focus and minimize mess.
- Spend a couple of seconds between teeth. This will help clean whatever’s lingering between your chompers.
- Add a splash of mouthwash to the reservoir. I do this every time, and it leaves my mouth feeling extra fresh.
- Practice makes perfect. If you can’t get the hang of it right away, keep trying!
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| 😁 A gentle reminder. At the end of the day, daily flossing either way can reduce risk of cavities and gingivitis (when done properly). While I’m on Team Water Flosser, the key is to build a dental hygiene routine that meets your needs. Consider chatting with a dentist to figure out which option is best for you. |
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| My favorite flosser |
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| Philips Sonicare Power Flosser 3000 |
| Say hello to my go-to water flosser! Affordable, efficient, and convenient, this cordless option features four water jets, two modes, and three intensity settings for highly targeted gum care. In almost 2 months, I’ve already worked my way up to the second setting. Just make sure to fill water to the max line for the longest possible floss since it drains pretty quickly. |
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| Every product we recommend has gone through either Healthline's or Optum Store’s vetting processes. If you buy through links on this page, we may receive a small commission or other tangible benefit. Healthline has sole editorial control over this newsletter. Potential uses for the products listed here are not health claims made by the manufacturers. Healthline and Optum Store are owned by RVO Health. |
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Thanks for reading! If you’ve ever used a water flosser, email wellnesswire@healthline.com to let us know how your first experience went. (Did you get water all over the bathroom mirror like I did?) (Please note that we may use your name and response in an upcoming edition!)
Also, here’s a personal anecdote from reader Victoria A. in response to our cold plunge story last week:
“I have been cold plunging for several years. I started doing it for my migraines and it helped lessen the amount of migraines per month. It also gave me more energy and I haven't been sick with a cold, flu, or COVID, so I believe it boosts my immunity. I only do it when the weather gets cooler, but I enjoy the stimulation to my system. Otherwise I swim for an hour plus daily and I highly recommend this exercise.”
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