Water Flosser vs Dental Floss: Which is More Effective for Gum Health?

Maintaining dental hygiene is not just about brushing your teeth twice a day. The most difficult part to clean—between the teeth—is actually the biggest risk of becoming a place where plaque, caries, and gum disease start. Well, the two most common tools for cleaning this area are Dental floss and Water flosser. But, which is actually more effective?

OMNI Dental Clinic tried to find the answer to this question by reviewing a recent systematic review published by the Journal of Indian Society of Periodontology.

This study is a Systematic Review that analyzed 7 Studies conducted between 2002–2022. The aim was to compare the effectiveness of Water flosser with Dental floss in reducing plaque in adults.

The main focus of each study was:

• Plaque reduction (plaque index)

• Improvement of gum health (gingival index)

• Effectiveness in cleaning hard-to-reach areas, such as molars

The results

• 4 out of 7 studies showed that Water flosser was significantly more effective in reducing plaque than Dental floss.

• 3 other studies showed similar effectiveness, but still placed Water flossers slightly ahead in cleaning hard-to-reach areas.

• One study even noted that plaque reduction could reach 74.4% after one use of Water flosser, compared to Dental floss which was only 57.7%.

Why is Water Flosser More Effective?

Water flosser works with a pressurized water jet that is able to enter between teeth and the area under the gum line (subgingival), an area that is often not accessible with regular Dental floss.

Other advantages of Water flosser are:

• Easier to use, especially for patients with Braces, Implants, or who have motor limitations

• More comfortable and does not cause gum irritation

• Does not require special techniques like using dental floss

However, that does not mean Dental floss does not have advantages, Dental floss is still very effective especially when used with the correct technique and consistently.

Which Tool Should You Use?

🔹 If you wear braces, have difficulty reaching the back of your teeth, or find it difficult to floss, a water flosser can be the best choice.

🔹 If you are used to using dental floss correctly, and have no special problems, then dental floss can be an option.

The most important thing is consistency and the right technique, whatever tool you choose.

Consult with Your Dentist

At OMNI Dental Clinic, we believe that every patient has different needs according to their dental and oral conditions. Therefore, we are ready to help you choose the most suitable dental cleaning tool for your oral condition.

Contact us and schedule your visit for a more optimal dental and gum health consultation!