How to Use a Waterpik

What is a Waterpik Water Flosser?

Water flossing is an advanced way to clean around and in between your teeth. A Waterpik water flosser is an oral health tool that can be easily used to elevate the quality of teeth flossing at home.

Unlike traditional floss, Waterpik water flossers have a motor with a pump and a special water flossing tip.

The motor and the pump use a pressure setting to create a stream of pressurized, pulsating water. This water then flows from the system’s water reservoir through the tip and into the user’s mouth. 

This system of streaming water can remove plaque, bacteria, and food particles.

Certain water flossers that have earned the American Dental Association Seal of Acceptance can also help lower the risk of gingivitis, which is an early form of gum disease.

Who Should Use a Waterpik?

Water flossers are a great alternative to string floss for people who find it hard to floss by hand. Water flossers can be especially helpful for kids just learning how to floss and the elderly who may not have as much strength to properly floss their teeth, but who still want to stay on top of their oral hygiene. 

Water flossing is also a great solution for teens and adults who have braces or other orthodontic devices that make traditional flossing difficult. Water flossers also offer different water pressure options that can be adjusted based on a user’s comfort and preference. They also come in a few different forms, including cordless, countertop, and travel size.

Is a Waterpik as Good as Flossing?

The American Dental Association awarded five Waterpik Water Flosser devices its ADA Seal of Approval:

• Waterpik Aquarius Professional
• Waterpik Aquarius Professional Designer Serie
• Waterpik Ultra
• Waterpik Nano
• Waterpik Traveler

An ADA Seal of Approval means that the devices are safe and have been shown to be effective when it comes to removing plaque along a user’s gumline and in-between teeth to help fight gingivitis. In fact, one study found that when it comes to reducing gingival bleeding, the water flosser actually had better results than traditional flossing methods.

How to Use a Waterpik Water Flosser Correctly 

There are a few easy steps to follow in order to use a Waterpik Water Flosser correctly: 

1. Fill the reservoir with warm water
2. Press down firmly on the device’s base
3. Choose a tip and click it into the handle
4. Start with the lowest pressure setting and then place the tip into your mouth while leaning over the sink so you don’t get water everywhere
5. Turn the unit on and close your mouth just enough to prevent water splashes
6. Let the water flow from your mouth into the sink below
7. Aim the tip at your gum line
8. When complete, turn the device off and press the “eject” button to remove the tip

Do you Brush your Teeth Before or After Using a Waterpik?

Researchers have found that flossing before brushing your teeth is likely the most effective way to get rid of dental plaque. Also, flossing before brushing your teeth with a toothbrush is the best method to increase fluoride concentration that is delivered via toothpaste. This fluoride helps strengthen enamel and fights against tooth decay.

How Often Should You Use a Waterpik?

The American Dental Association recommends brushing your teeth two times per day and flossing once daily to keep your oral health in tip-top shape. Since your water flosser will replace traditional dental floss, it’s recommended for daily use as well.