Use of a water flosser for interdental cleaning

Interdental cleaning is an important part of a patient's personal oral care regimen. Water flossers, also known as oral irrigators or dental water jets, can play a vital, effective role in interdental hygiene. Evidence has shown a significant reduction in plaque biofilm from tooth surfaces and the reduction of subgingival pathogenic bacteria from pockets as deep as 6 mm with the use of water flossing. In addition, water flossers have been shown to reduce gingivitis, bleeding, probing pocket depth, host inflammatory mediators, and calculus. Educating patients on the use of a water flosser as part of their oral hygiene routine can be a valuable tool in maintaining oral health.