Dentists talk about cleaning in between teeth - a lot.
We do so, not because we are boring (no comments on this point please 😁), but because we know just how important this area of the mouth and body is to your overall health, and how easily overlooked and neglected it can be.
Gum disease and tooth cavities are preventable with thorough interdental cleaning. Now it has been strongly suggested that the risks of cardiovascular disease, stroke, diabetes, early miscarriage and Alzheimer's disease are also reduced when our oral hygiene is excellent - this naturally includes care of the space between our teeth.
No wonder dentists focus so intently on the importance of the seemingly inconsequential activity of interdental cleaning.
We dentists know is that the hardest part of interdental cleaning is establishing the pattern of doing it consistently . . . and consistently well.
For some people the water flosser has proven to be a blessing - a tool that allows them to clean this space in a way they enjoy, regularly.
A users guide. . .
'The good’ and ‘the bad’ aspects of the water flosser.
The good:
Used properly, the water flosser effectively cleans under the gum, reducing the amount of bacterial plaque and breaking up the biofilm.
It is quite fun to use.
Water flossers make it easier to clean back teeth and inside surfaces well.
They are great if you are having orthodontic treatment.
One unit can be shared by the whole family, as long as you each use your own tips.
The bad:
They are relatively expensive, although prices are coming down as demand increases.
They take up bathroom bench space.
They are difficult to travel with. There are 'portable' models, but they are big and clunky to use.
They can be seriously messy in the learning phase.
They make great water pistols for kids. . . do not leave them unsupervised or you will be doing a lot of additional bathroom cleaning.
You really have to pay attention to what you are doing to get the best out of them.
Water flossing takes time to do well.
The everyday problems dentists see with water flossers:
People lose interest when the novelty value wears off.
It is common to see this pattern - really consistent water flossing for about 2 weeks after a dental visit . . . then very little water flossing happens until the text reminder for the next dental appointment arrives!
People trying to rush this process. This does not work.
Is a water flosser the tool for you?
If you have tried every other tool and just won't use them, this could be your thing.
It is great appliance to share as a family. You can encourage each other to use it.
To get the most out of it, you need to be the sort of person who treats your teeth and body as being worth the care and effort.
The water flosser is a powerful tool for people will not use other methods.
Teeth feel very clean after using it and this is the most powerful inspiration to keep caring for yourself and enhancing your wellbeing.
