Flossing or Water Flossing? Discover our Dentists' Recommendations

It’s a story almost as old as teeth themselves: patients simply don’t like flossing. Despite knowing it’s essential for gum health, many skip this vital step in their oral hygiene routine, and our dentists and dental teams deeply regret it. A 2015 survey by the American Academy of Periodontology (AAP) revealed some startling truths about flossing habits. Over a quarter (27%) of U.S. adults admitted to lying to their dentist about their daily flossing, and 36% said they’d rather do almost anything else, like clean the toilet or sit in traffic, than spend a minute flossing their teeth!

For dentists and hygienists, this reluctance to floss is more than just an inconvenience. Brushing alone doesn’t remove plaque, which builds up on our teeth and gums, especially the bacteria that lurk below the gumline. This bacteria is no small matter; if left unchecked, it can lead to gum irritation, swelling, and eventually periodontal disease. Periodontal disease is linked to a range of serious chronic conditions like diabetes, cardiovascular issues, rheumatoid arthritis, and even Alzheimer’s disease. The Canadian Dental Association (CDA) research indicates that 7 in 10 Canadians will develop gum disease in their lifetime, so our dentists and dental team highlights that regular flossing is more important than ever.

So why do so many people shy away from flossing, despite its well-documented benefits? The most common reason is discomfort. Traditional string floss can be difficult to handle, especially for those with sensitive gums or crowded teeth. At By The Lake Dental, we not only stress the importance of flossing but also take the time to teach patients the most effective techniques. This way, flossing becomes a simpler, less daunting task that helps maintain optimal oral health.

For those who still find traditional flossing challenging or uncomfortable, water flossing offers an excellent solution. With a Waterpik, patients can adjust the water pressure to their comfort level, and the device's 360-degree rotating handle makes it easy to reach hard-to-clean areas that often require tricky maneuvering with string floss.

One of the biggest advantages of water flossing is its convenience. Using a Waterpik takes just one minute per day! And for those with specific oral health needs, like braces, dental appliances or implants, Waterpik offers a variety of specialized tips, such as the Orthodontic Tip, Plaque Seeker™ Tip, and Pik Pocket™ Tip, each designed to cater to different dental situations.

While water flossing has been shown to be more effective for preventing gum disease, it’s not as effective for cavity prevention. Water flossing doesn’t penetrate the contact points between teeth as thoroughly as traditional flossing, making string floss the recommended choice for this purpose. That’s why alternating between the two methods is recommended by our dentists and dental team.

Whether you choose string flossing or water flossing, or both, the key takeaway is simple: flossing is a vital part of your oral hygiene routine. Regular flossing helps keep your gums healthy, reduces your risk of gum disease, and can even have a positive impact on your overall health. But if traditional flossing isn’t your thing, don’t worry - water flossing is an equally effective (and often more comfortable) option.

Interested in Waterpik? Ask our team during your next visit! At By The Lake Dental, you can buy this and other technological devices, at the retail value, to enhance your oral hygiene habits.

Maintain consistency in your oral care. Brush twice daily, floss with string or water, and contact By The Lake Dental, your favourite dental office in Ajax and Scarborough, to book your regular hygiene appointment every four to six months.

Why choose By The Lake Dental:

✅ +10 years caring for our community’s oral health needs

✅ A Platinum+ Invisalign dental office

✅ Direct billing to benefit provider

✅ Cutting-edge technology

✅ Full service family care

✅ Concierge experience

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Call us today: Ajax 905-428-2111, Highland Creek 416-284-8282.

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