A water flosser cleans between your teeth with a thin, pulsing stream of water instead of string. For people who find floss awkward, or who wear braces or have bridges and implants, it can make cleaning between teeth much easier. This guide explains what these devices do, the main types, who they suit, how to use one, and where to find genuine products. It supports our guide on how to floss correctly.
What a water flosser does
A water flosser has a water reservoir, a small pump and a nozzle (the tip). A pulsing jet flushes food and loosens plaque from between teeth and along the gumline. It is a form of interdental cleaning, the daily step that health organisations recommend alongside brushing. It is useful where string floss is hard to use, but it does not remove every kind of plaque in exactly the same way as floss or interdental brushes, so many dentists treat it as another valid option, and some recommend combining methods. Ask your dentist what suits you.
Main types
- Countertop (plug-in). A larger base with a big water reservoir and more pressure settings. It suits home use and refilling less often, but takes counter space.
- Cordless (portable). A single rechargeable handheld unit with a small reservoir. It is easy to store and travel with, but needs recharging and refilling more often.
- Cordless countertop. A larger reservoir with a battery, giving some of both benefits.
- Combination units. A device that combines a sonic toothbrush and water flosser in one handle.
Waterpik, the best-known brand, explains the differences on its buying guide. Other makers sell similar products.
Who benefits most
- People with braces, who find it hard to thread floss around wires
- People with bridges, implants or crowns, where string floss is awkward
- People with limited hand dexterity or arthritis
- Anyone who dislikes string floss and so does not clean between teeth at all, since a method you use beats a better one you skip
The ADA Seal and water flossers
The American Dental Association gave its Seal of Acceptance to electric Waterpik water flossers in 2017, as a first-in-category product. Waterpik states that some current models, such as the ION and Cordless Pulse, are ADA-accepted. Acceptance applies to individual products and can change, so always check the exact model in the ADA product search. See our guide to checking the ADA Seal.
How to use a water flosser safely
- Fill the reservoir with warm water. Some people add a mouthwash, but check the manufacturer’s advice first.
- Choose the lowest pressure setting and increase it gradually as your gums get used to it.
- Lean over the sink and place the tip in your mouth before switching it on. Close your lips lightly so water runs out into the basin.
- Aim the tip at the gumline at a slight angle and pause briefly between teeth, following the gumline around the mouth.
- Do the outside and inside of both the upper and lower teeth.
- Empty the reservoir after use and clean the unit as the maker advises.
If your gums bleed a little at first, that is usually a sign that they need cleaning. If bleeding or pain continues, see a dentist.
What to look for when buying
- Pressure settings. Adjustable pressure helps if your gums are sensitive.
- Reservoir size. A larger reservoir means fewer refills.
- Tips included. Look for multiple tips if more than one person will use it, and for specialised tips if you have braces or implants.
- Noise, size and cord length for a countertop unit.
- Battery life for a cordless unit.
- ADA Seal and warranty. Check the exact model number.
Where to find genuine products
- The brand’s own websites. Waterpik’s product pages show current models and their features, and Waterpik also runs an official online store at store.waterpik.com.
- Established retailers. Pharmacies, electronics stores and large online shops stock them, and prices vary by country and promotion. Compare a few sellers for the exact model number.
- Replacement tips. Tips wear out and need replacing about every three to six months, so check that tips are easy to get for the model you buy. Use genuine tips from the maker or a trusted seller.
We do not list prices because they vary and change often. Any retailer links added in the future will be clearly labelled. See our Editorial Policy.
The bottom line
It is a good option if string floss is hard for you, and a more comfortable habit is a more effective habit. Choose a model with adjustable pressure, check the ADA listing for the exact model, and keep brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste. Read the daily oral hygiene guide for the full routine, or contact us with questions about this guide.
For a comparison with floss and interdental brushes, see our interdental cleaning guide.
Sources
- Waterpik, Buying guide (manufacturer information)
- Waterpik, Product range (manufacturer information)
- American Dental Association, ADA Seal product categories
- NHS, How to keep your teeth clean
