Waterpik is a brand of water flossers. There are many different brands of water flossers, including Sonic, Philips, Zerhunt and more. Waterpiks are great at getting between your teeth to keep them healthy and free of food particles or plaque buildup but they are not a replacement for traditional floss.

Water flossers work by shooting a concentrated stream of water through a nozzle in between your teeth. The idea is to use water pressure and pulsation to clean away plaque and debris. Studies show that water flossers can reach deeper into gum pockets than regular flossing if used properly. It can also be used to help clean orthodontic appliances, such as braces, and dental implants. Proper gum care is vital to maintaining dental implants. A water flosser can go a long way in reducing plaque buildup, bleeding from the gums and gingivitis. 

If you have sensitive gums, water flossers can be gentler and reduce bleeding. It is also great for people who have less dexterity and find it hard to reach between the teeth with traditional floss. Keep in mind that water flossers can be quite pricey while traditional dental floss is generally inexpensive.

While water flossers help keep your teeth clean, remember they aren’t a replacement for traditional flossing. Dental floss removes the bacteria colonies while water flossers just rinse the area. It’s great to be able to use both tools to keep your teeth and gums happy. Floss first to scrape off the plaque and debris and then rinse with the water flosser. At your regular checkup and cleaning with your dentist, you’ll notice that we do something similar - scrape and floss your teeth and then rinse them.

Want to know more about flossing? Need a checkup and cleaning? Book an appointment today with either of our Winnipeg dental clinics, located in St. Vital Centre and Garden City Shopping Centre.