Waterpiks – How To Use Them (2022)

Excerpt: A waterpick consists of a base with a reservoir for fluid, and an electric-powered wand...

Posted on: June 28, 2022

Having a waterpick at home can make oral hygiene a breeze! Whether you’re looking for an easy way to floss without the threading, or need a waterpick that’s more efficient than a traditional toothbrush, this guide will have you covered. In addition to explaining the different types of waterpicks available on the market, this blog provides tips on using a waterpick effectively so you get the most out of your dental hygiene. So what are you waiting for? Start flossing like a boss with a waterpick today!

Water flossers can be a valuable addition to any oral care routine. You should be using them every day, up to 3 times per day to get the most from your waterpik.

What Is A Waterpik (Water flosser)?

A waterpick consists of a base with a reservoir for fluid, and an electric-powered wand that is used to shoot out the liquid in a controlled manner. A water flosser is meant to be a substitute for flossing as it accomplishes the same goal only with fluid instead of a thread.

Some people prefer traditional flossing instead of a waterpik because they feel they can get better results. Even if you do use a water flosser, you should still consider traditional floss as well.

Who Would Benefit From A Water Flosser?

Anyone can benefit from using a water flosser, they are meant to be used as a general oral health tool. They are also designed to be used every day along with your normal oral care routine. If you find it is easier to use a waterpik flosser than traditional floss, then you should consider using it in your routine. If you have dexterity issues in your hands then you could also benefit a great deal from a waterpik.

If you are in the market for a water flosser, you should look for those that have been approved by the American Dental Association.

Water Flossing Vs Traditional Floss

There have been a few different water flossers that have been given the ADA Seal of Approval:

Waterpik Aquarius Professional
Waterpik Aquarius Professional Designer Series
Waterpik Ultra
Waterpik Nano
Waterpik Traveler

These water flossers have been given the Seal of Approval based on how effective they are at fighting gum disease and preventing tooth decay. A water flosser may do a great job at fighting gum disease, but if you have food particles stuck between your teeth, it may not be able to dislodge them. This way it can be useful to use traditional floss in your modern routine along with your water flosser.

How To Correctly Use A Water Flosser

To get the most out of using a water flosser you should do the following:

Fill the reservoir with water (you can also add in mouthwash for a more effective clean)
If you have multiple tips choose the one that will suit your current task
If you haven’t used it before starting on the lowest pressure setting, make sure to be leaning over the sink to reduce the mess.
Point the water between each tooth until you have thoroughly cleaned them all.
Make sure to point the tip at your gums and under your tongue so you don’t miss any important spots.
After you are finished, replace the wand and turn off the water flosser.

Adding mouthwash to your reservoir can be an excellent way to increase the effectiveness of your water flosser, and it can even help remove bad breath (halitosis).

Should You Brush Your Teeth Before Or After?

Brushing will help to remove most of the stubborn plaque and food particles. This will help make way for the water flosser which will do a good job at getting any spots that you may have missed during brushing. If you do forget to brush beforehand you can always brush after you are done with the water flosser.

How Often Should You Use A Water Flosser?

Water flossers can be used every day, you should use them every time you do your oral health care routine. If you use them 2-3 times a day, they should help enhance your oral health by decreasing gum disease and reducing your chance of tooth decay.

Do You Still Need Dental Checkups With A Water Flosser?

Yes, taking care of your teeth at home is a great way to reduce most issues that can impact your mouth. However, even if you have the best dental routine, you should still make appointments every 6 months (2 times a year). Waterpiks also can’t remove tartar (calculus), so if do have tartar, you will want to get an appointment to clean your teeth.