17 Apr Is Investing in a Waterpik Worth It? A Closer Look 

There’s a reason why the global water flosser market is expected to reach $1.9 billion by 2030. The water flosser isn’t exactly new technology. However, thanks to brands like Waterpik the tools that were previously confined to dental offices are now available for home use. 

While Waterpiks are certainly nice they can also cost quite a lot. As such, you’re likely asking yourself questions like, is a Waterpik worth it? And should I use it to replace flossing altogether? 

In this guide, we’ll answer these questions so you can decide for yourself whether this popular water flosser is right for you. 

What Are Waterpiks? 

As we mentioned at the start of the article, a Waterpik is one of the more well-known water flossing devices. Water flossers are a specific type of interdental cleaner. 

These devices are important for food and plaque removal from between the spaces of your teeth. Waterpiks work by spraying water from a small tip. This stream can be directed at either your teeth or in between your gums. 

Waterpiks come with different pressure levels which is important to blast away particularly stubborn plaque. It’s also important to note that Waterpiks aren’t the only brand of water flossers out there. 

You can find plenty online, though their quality may vary. While most are standalone some hybrid models combine a water flosser with a traditional toothbrush. 

Who Are Waterpiks For? 

Waterpiks can be used by anyone who wants to improve their oral health. That being said, certain people can benefit from them more. That starts with people who have sensitive gums. 

Flossing can often hurt these individuals and cause excessive bleeding. As such, Waterpiks provide a gentler alternative.  This gentleness can also help people who have crowns, non-removable bridgework, or dental implants. 

Waterpiks are also great for people who have braces. Flossing with braces can be particularly challenging. A Waterpik will allow you to navigate around and behind the brackets and wires. 

Waterpiks are also great for people who struggle with arthritis or carpal tunnel syndrome. These individuals often don’t have the dexterity to floss, so Waterpiks offer a less painful solution to oral care. 

How Do You Use Waterpiks? 

The devices might look complicated, but learning how to use a Waterpik is quite simple. When using a Waterpik, you’ll first need to fill the reservoir section up with warm water. 

Then select the water pressure that you want to use. Before you turn on the Waterpik make sure you either put it in your mouth or over the sink. Otherwise, it will make a mess by spraying water everywhere. 

Once the Waterpik is on, aim the stream directly at your gum line. You don’t need to force the Waterpik in between your gums. And if at any point you need to stream of water to stop you can hit the pause button. 

Is a Waterpik Worth It: What Are the Benefits? 

For many people, Waterpiks are worth the investment thanks to the wide variety of benefits that come with them. First, Waterpiks excel at reaching tough spots that brushing or flossing alone often ignore. 

Specifically, it can help target periodontal pockets that can be the early cause of gum disease. In addition to making your breath smell nice, it can also keep it fresher for longer. 

Waterpiks are also fairly intuitive to use. You will need to learn some of the specifics like how to control the water temperature and pressure. However, once you master these it’s incredibly easy to use. 

What Are the Drawbacks of Waterpiks? 

The main drawback to Waterpiks is the cost. The product can be quite expensive for some people which doesn’t make it accessible for everyone. If you don’t use the Waterpik correctly it can also be quite messy getting water all over the place. 

Many people also complain that it can be hard to store. It takes up valuable bathroom counter space and putting it away after every use can be a pain. That being said, besides these minor drawbacks, the product is completely safe to use and contains no risks. 

How Does It Compare to Flossing? 

There’s not a ton of evidence that Waterpiks are more effective than traditional flossing. Flossing does allow you to be a bit more precise with each tooth. 

And it can be better at getting hard-to-remove plaque that water pressure can’t handle. However, many people don’t use the proper flossing techniques.  

Check out our guide if you want to learn how to floss right. That being said, as we mentioned there are still areas that standard flossing can miss. Instead of choosing between Waterpik vs. flossing, consider using both. 

Start with flossing to break loose any food, plaque, or other debris. Then, clean up with the precision of the Waterpik. While it might be a little extra work, it ensures that you get the best of both worlds when it comes to gum and teeth cleaning. 

Don’t Forget About the Dentist 

Remember that the Waterpik isn’t a substitute for your regular dentist appointment. In addition to screening things like cancer and other oral conditions, they also provide valuable preventative care through deeper cleanings. 

There’s some debate about how often you should go. However, most experts agree that every six months is safe. Remember that these check-ups can help you prevent costly dental treatments down the line. 

Have More Questions? 

We hope this guide helped you answer the question, is a Waterpik worth it? As you can see while it might be an investment, Waterpiks can greatly improve your oral health especially if you combine it with flossing. 

Here at McIlwain Dental Specialists, we know that our patients have questions about a wide range of topics – from potential tooth surgeries to the brand of toothpaste they should use. 

In addition to providing exceptional dental care, we also pride ourselves on educating our patients. So, if you’re ready for a comprehensive dental experience, schedule an appointment today.