Objective
This systematic review aims to compare the effectiveness of water flossers and dental floss in removing interproximal plaque and reducing gingival inflammation in adults.
Methodology
The researchers analyzed seven randomized controlled trials identified in scientific databases such as PubMed, Scopus, and Cochrane. The selected studies compared plaque removal after using a water flosser or dental floss, in addition to daily brushing.
Results
The results show superiority of the water flosser in several aspects of oral hygiene:
- Overall plaque reduction : 74.4% on average and up to 99.9% in certain cases with the water jet compared to 57.7% with dental floss on average.
- Interproximal plaque removal : 81.6% for the water flosser versus 63.4% for dental floss.
- Reduction of gingival inflammation : More marked improvement in water flosser users.
The water flosser allows for more effective removal of debris and plaque in hard-to-reach areas, which can contribute to better prevention of periodontal disease.
Conclusion
The water flosser is an effective alternative to dental floss for removing plaque, particularly in interdental spaces where brushing alone is insufficient. Its use is particularly beneficial for people who have difficulty handling dental floss, experience pain when using it, or are looking for a faster and more convenient solution for their oral hygiene routine. It is also suitable for wearers of orthodontic appliances, implants, or dentures, for whom interdental cleaning can be more complex. Although its effectiveness has been proven, the water flosser does not replace brushing but is an essential complement for better prevention of periodontal disease and optimal oral health.
Scientific sources
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
