These Dentist-Recommended Water Flossers Are Essential for Cleaner Gums and a Healthier Smile

We updated this article in April 2023 to add more information about each featured product, based on extensive research done by our team.

There’s nothing like the gleam of bright, white, clean teeth after going to the dentist—though getting that same result daily can be hard to recreate. The good news is that you can boost your oral health and get super-clean feeling teeth at home by using the best water flossers and waterpiks.

A water flosser (a.k.a. oral irrigator) is a health appliance designed for dental care at home. It works by using a targeted stream of water to remove plaque, food particles, and bacteria in a way that’s more comfortable and easier than traditional string floss. However, experts say it isn’t necessarily better to use one over the other. Instead, you should use both tools to properly remove particles from between your teeth and gums, helping to prevent cavities and gum disease.

Meet the experts: Amanda Lewis D.D.S, a cosmetic dentist based in Dallas, Wesam Shafee D.M.D., aesthetic dentist and founder of Smile Care Dental Group in Paramus, NJ.

Water flossers have great benefits for the actual gum tissue, maybe less of a benefit in between the teeth,” says Amanda Lewis D.D.S, a cosmetic dentist based in Dallas. “I find that traditional floss can be used to clean in between the teeth and down at the gum underneath the level where most things can reach. The two together can be very effective around implants—implants have a different contour coming out of the gum tissue,” Dr. Lewis explains.

While you may already be groaning about the amount of dental gadgets your oral hygiene routine involves already, adding a water flosser to your collection of electric toothbrushes or whitening pens will certainly optimize your gum health.

Our top picks

Ready to shop? Ahead, find 10 top-rated dentist-approved water flossers and waterpiks, approved by experts and reviewers alike.