Brushing twice a day is an essential part of good oral hygiene, but it only cleans around 60% of tooth surfaces. To help remove plaque and food debris from between teeth, dentists recommend cleaning interdental spaces daily.
Two of the most common methods are:
- Traditional string floss
- Water flossers (oral irrigators)
But which one is better?
The answer depends on your needs, dental health, and personal preference.
In this guide, we'll compare water flossers and string floss to help you decide which option is best for your oral care routine.
What Is a Water Flosser?
A water flosser is a device that uses a pressurised stream of water to clean between teeth and along the gumline.
The pulsating water helps flush away:
- Food particles
- Plaque build-up
- Bacteria around the gums
Water flossers are particularly popular among people with:
- Braces
- Dental implants
- Bridges
- Crowns
- Sensitive gums
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What Is String Floss?
Traditional floss is a thin strand of material designed to physically scrape plaque and debris from between teeth.
It remains one of the most commonly recommended methods for cleaning tight spaces between teeth.
When used correctly, floss can effectively remove plaque before it hardens into tartar.
Water Flosser vs String Floss: Key Differences
| Feature | Water Flosser | String Floss |
|---|---|---|
| Ease of Use | Easy | Requires technique |
| Suitable for Braces | Excellent | More difficult |
| Gum Comfort | Gentle | Can irritate sensitive gums |
| Travel Friendly | Portable models available | Very portable |
| Plaque Removal | Very effective | Very effective |
| Cleaning Around Dental Work | Excellent | Can be difficult |
| Learning Curve | Low | Moderate |
Which Is Better for Gum Health?
Many people choose water flossers because they provide a gentler cleaning experience around the gums.
The pulsating water can help remove bacteria from below the gumline while being more comfortable for users with sensitive gums.
For people who experience:
- bleeding gums,
- gum sensitivity,
- or discomfort when flossing,
a water flosser may feel easier to use consistently.
Which Is Better for Braces?
Water flossers are often considered one of the easiest ways to clean around braces.
Traditional floss requires threading around:
- brackets,
- wires,
- and tight spaces.
A water flosser can quickly reach these areas and help remove trapped food particles more effectively.
For orthodontic users, a water flosser can significantly simplify daily cleaning routines.
Which Removes More Plaque?
Both methods can help reduce plaque when used correctly.
String floss physically scrapes plaque from tooth surfaces.
Water flossers help flush away debris and bacteria using water pressure.
Many dental professionals recommend using whichever method you are most likely to use consistently.
The best flossing method is the one that becomes part of your daily routine.
Is a Water Flosser Easier to Use?
For many users, yes.
Water flossers are particularly useful for:
- people with limited dexterity,
- older adults,
- braces wearers,
- and users who find traditional floss difficult or uncomfortable.
Modern cordless models make daily oral care quick and convenient.
Who Should Choose a Water Flosser?
A water flosser may be ideal if you:
✔ Wear braces
✔ Have sensitive gums
✔ Have dental implants or bridges
✔ Struggle with traditional floss
✔ Want a more comfortable cleaning experience
✔ Travel frequently and want a portable oral care solution
Who Should Choose String Floss?
String floss may suit users who:
✔ Prefer a low-cost option
✔ Have very tight spaces between teeth
✔ Are comfortable with traditional flossing techniques
✔ Want a compact option requiring no charging
Can You Use Both?
Absolutely.
Many people combine:
- Brushing
- Water flossing
- Traditional flossing
as part of a complete oral hygiene routine.
Using both methods can help ensure teeth and gums receive thorough daily care.
What Do Dentists Recommend?
Most dental professionals agree that cleaning between teeth daily is essential.
Whether you choose:
- water flossing,
- traditional floss,
- or both,
consistency is more important than the method itself.
Good oral hygiene should always include:
- brushing twice daily,
- cleaning between teeth,
- and regular dental check-ups.
Helpful Resources
For additional oral health information:
NHS Oral Health Advice
Oral Health Foundation
What Does a Water Flosser Do?
Final Thoughts
Both water flossers and traditional string floss can play an important role in maintaining healthy teeth and gums.
If convenience, comfort, and ease of use are priorities, a water flosser may be the better choice—especially for braces wearers, users with dental work, or those with sensitive gums.
For many people, the ideal solution is incorporating both into a daily oral care routine for the most comprehensive clean possible.
