Also called a water flosser, a water pick is a handheld oral hygiene device that releases a stream of water to clean around the teeth and gum line. Some people use this tool instead of traditional dental floss. If you want to know which is best for your needs, review the following comparison between the two options.

Benefits of String Floss

Floss is affordable and widely available at drug stores. Water picks, on the other hand, require higher upfront investments.

You can also carry string floss in your purse or keep it at your desk. This way, you can use it anywhere, which comes in handy if you eat foods that leave particles stuck between your teeth. A water pick takes up more counter space and requires an electric outlet, so it’s best kept at home.

Benefits of Water Picks

Some people experience minor bleeding or inflammation when they floss. A gentle stream of water is less irritating if you have gingivitis or gum sensitivity. 

If you have mobility issues, such as arthritis, you might have trouble reaching some parts of your mouth using traditional dental floss. In this case, a water pick makes oral hygiene easier. Water streams are also effective for removing stuck particles if you have braces.

Both methods are effective for oral hygiene, but a water pick could have a slight advantage. It massages the gums, which could loosen food particles stuck beneath the gum line. This is why it’s been shown to be 29% better at removing plaque than string floss.

If you have questions about which oral hygiene methods you should use to prevent gum disease, tooth decay, and discoloration, talk to the knowledgeable team at New Horizons Dental LLC in Wisconsin Rapids, WI. They’ve served Wood County since 2005, and are members of the American Dental Association. They also carry water picks to help protect your oral health. To learn more about the practice, visit their website. Call (715) 424-7810 to discuss your needs.