Waterpik Vs. Floss

The Waterpik and dental floss are oral hygiene products that remove food from in between teeth and below the gums where a toothbrush can't reach.

Benefits

The Waterpik is gentle on the gums and ideal for people who wear braces. Dental floss removes food in hard-to-reach areas, and can keep the gums from harboring germs.

Features

Cordless Waterpik models have up to four tips, two pressure settings, and can hold up to 210 ml of water. Countertop models have from two to four tips, up to 10 pressure settings, and can hold up to 1,000 ml of water. Dental floss can be used with a threader or a holder.

Types

The Waterpik comes in countertop or cordless models. Dental floss comes in waxed, unwaxed, tape, polymer, nylon, synthetic fiber, flavored and unflavored.

Considerations

The Waterpik can't remove tartar and plaque and can't reach the back of the mouth effectively. Dental floss can be hard on sensitive gums and can't be used on braces, as the fiber can't penetrate the wires.

Cost

The Waterpik costs under $50 for most models. Dental floss costs less than $5.

References

• Dental Floss vs. Waterpik: Which one is Right for your Teeth?
• What is a Waterpik?
• Types of Dental Floss

Resources

• Waterpik Online Store
• Waterpik Clinical Results
• Buying Dental Floss