Oral hygiene refers to habits we complete each day to keep our mouths clean. Natural bacteria in our mouths will create a film called plaque. It can erode the dental structure if it remains on our smiles. So we brush our teeth and floss to get rid of plaque and other harmful residues before they hurt our oral health.
Traditional flossing using waxed string is an effective method of scrubbing away build-up between the teeth where a toothbrush cannot reach properly. But dentists also recommend water flossers as a new and enhanced way of cleaning this part of your smile.
This tool will work best when you employ it with purpose and proper technique. Read on to find guidelines for how to use your water flosser to maximize oral hygiene capabilities.
Choose the Right Settings on Your Flosser
The water flosser is an oral hygiene tool that you fill with water and the device generates a stream from the tip that you aim between your teeth to clean them. This device features many settings that you can adjust to your specific preferences.
For instance, you can swap out the tip of the flosser according to your oral health needs. You may choose the standard tip, one designed to maneuver around braces and oral appliances, or a tip that can target deep in the gum pockets.
A water flosser also allows you to change the speed and pressure of the stream of water. Begin with the lowest setting so that you get used to the feeling. Then you can alter the pressure as needed to achieve the cleanness you need while remaining comfortable.
Navigate the Water Flosser with Purpose
As with traditional floss, you need to complete the oral cleaning process with purpose in order to properly clean your smile with a water flosser. When flossing with string, you target the space between each tooth, and the water flosser is no different. In fact, this tool allows you to clean these areas as well as the tricky spots near the gumline.
To ensure you aim your water flosser accurately, you may want to perform this task in front of a mirror. This way, you can see where to position the flosser. Lean over a sink when flossing this way so that you do not splash water everywhere.
To avoid making a mess, keep the tip of the flosser under the lips. Then allow water to flow out of your mouth into the sink as you floss. You might want to consider trying a cordless water flosser which you can use in the shower to further reduce potential mess.
Ideally, you should start at the back of the mouth with the flosser and make your way forward. Make sure to clean between each of the teeth and navigate around the gumline along both edges of your smile and for both arches of teeth. Learn more about water flossers, oral hygiene, and preventative dental care by calling your dentist.