Water flossers

[bracedengineer]

Hey guys!

I've seen a bunch of people talking about how amazing water flossers are but I'm wondering if I can get input on if it can be used to replace manual flossing? They all seem to say that they can be but we all know marketing can be misleading.

[WanderingWallflower]

It doesn't replace manual flossing but you won't have to floss as much if you use the waterpik!

[hdavies91]

They don't replace manual flossing but certainly helps knock food out of the braces and makes cleaning easier. I use a water flosser followed by a large interdental brush to clean around the brackets. Then I will use a tiny brush to get in between the teeth where possible, followed by brushing.

[bracedengineer]

Thanks for the info! I think I'll talk to my ortho to see what she has to say as well before I go for it.

[djspeece]

I used the waterflosser during my orthodontic sentence; it really blasts away debris. However, I never flossed. I used interdental brushes (AKA Christmas Tree brushes) dipped in Listerine instead with great results.

[Ravenclaw]

Most dentists say water flossers aren't a substitute for dental floss, but flossing is very time consuming with braces on, so I only do it every other day. On days when I don't floss, I use my Waterpik. I haven't had an dental checkup or adjustment since getting braces, so I can't really say if this is an acceptable routine. I guess I'll find out the next time I see my dentist or ortho.