Frequently Asked Questions
Which water flosser do dentists recommend overall, and why?
Dr. Wei’s go-to is the Waterpik Aquarius Water Flosser, which he recommends for its “clinical-grade clean with customizable pressure settings, a variety of specialized tips, and a large water reservoir for uninterrupted use.” He also notes that it’s “one of the most extensively studied devices in dental research” and has been shown to outperform traditional string dental floss in reducing plaque, gingivitis, and bleeding gums. Dr. Faust echoes the brand’s authority, noting that “Waterpik is the standard and was the first water flosser invented over 50 years ago.” While both experts point to Waterpik as the benchmark, Dr. Faust acknowledges that the category has expanded significantly, with newer models now offering timers, compact travel sizes, and even UV light sanitization.
Where in your dental hygiene routine should you use your water flosser, and how should you do it?
Timing comes down to preference. Dr. Wei recommends using your water flosser after brushing “to ensure that plaque, bacteria, and food particles are fully removed from between teeth and along the gumline,” while Dr. Faust suggests using it at the start of your session “to remove any major debris and create a cleaner slate for your toothbrush to do its work.” Either way, both agree it should be a daily addition to your routine, not a replacement for brushing. As Dr. Faust puts it, “water flossing should not replace any of the steps in your brushing routine; it is simply a bonus that ensures a thorough teeth cleaning.”
As for technique, Dr. Wei advises starting on a low-pressure setting if you’re new to it, leaning slightly over the sink, and directing “the water stream at a 90-degree angle along the gumline, pausing briefly between teeth for maximum cleaning.” He adds that consistent daily use “strengthens gum tissue, reduces inflammation, and can prevent long-term issues like bone loss, gum recession, and chronic bad breath.”
What are the downsides to using a water flosser?
“The most common problem I’ve seen with water flossers is the idea that they are more effective than they actually are,” says Dr. Faust, who likens them to “a power washer for the outside” of a car. For true detailing, she’s emphatic that “the mechanical motion of using actual floss is the single most important thing you can do for the long-term health of your teeth and surrounding tissues.” Dr. Wei agrees, noting that water flossers “may not fully remove sticky plaque or stains on tooth surfaces, so brushing remains essential.”
On the practical side, both point to bulk and upkeep as real considerations. Dr. Wei notes they “may be bulky and require counter space” and that improper use, like too-high pressure or poor technique, “can irritate gums or miss tight contacts between teeth.” Dr. Faust adds they can be “cumbersome for travel and difficult to keep clean” and makes clear that daily use isn’t necessary for everyone. “You don’t need to use them daily unless you have orthodontic appliances or other dental work where food is easily trapped on a daily basis.” All that said, Dr. Wei maintains that the benefits “far outweigh the inconveniences when used correctly and consistently.”
Meet the experts
- Michael J. Wei, DDS, a cosmetic and restorative dentist based in New York City
- Erika Faust, DDS, an orthodontist based in New York City
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