Objective
This systematic review evaluates the effectiveness of water flossers compared to dental floss, emphasizing their superior impact in removing bacterial plaque and improving gingival health.
Methodology
The analysis is based on seven randomized controlled trials, selected from recognized scientific databases (PubMed, Scopus, Cochrane). These studies compared the effects of water flossers and dental floss on reducing plaque and signs of gingivitis, with objective measurements after regular use.
Results: Up to 2X more effective than dental floss in some cases.
Data from clinical trials indicate that the water flosser provides a significantly higher efficiency flossing in removing plaque and protecting gums:
- Elimination of bacterial plaque: On average, the water flosser reduces plaque by up to 74.4% after use, against 57.7% with dental flossThis represents an improvement of almost 30% in favor of the water flosser.
- Interproximal plaque reduction: Plaque between the teeth is removed 81.6% with the water flosser, against 63.4% with dental floss, or an efficiency almost 30% higher.
- Gum health: The water flosser causes a decrease 2x most important of signs of gum inflammation and bleeding, demonstrating increased efficacy in the prevention of periodontal diseases.
- Access to difficult areas: Unlike dental floss, water flossers can reach subgingival areas and deep interdental spaces, where plaque and bacteria frequently accumulate.
These results confirm that the water flosser is up to twice as effective than dental floss to remove plaque and improve gum health, especially in people who are susceptible to periodontal disease.
Conclusion
The water flosser represents a major advancement in oral hygiene. Its effectiveness, validated by clinical studies, demonstrates that it constitutes an alternative superior to dental floss, allowing a more effective reduction of bacterial plaque and better protection of the gums. Its use is particularly recommended for patients who have difficulty flossing, as well as for those wearing orthodontic appliances, implants or prostheses. Although its effectiveness is proven, it remains a complement to daily brushing to ensure optimal oral hygiene.
Scientific source
Mohapatra S, Rajpurohit L, Mohandas R, Patil S. Comparing the effectiveness of water flosser and dental floss in plaque reduction among adults: A systematic review. J Indian Soc Periodontol. 2024;27(6):559–567. PMCID: PMC10906797