If You Hate Flossing, This Water Flosser Is About To Change Your Life

When it comes to dental hygiene, you’ve probably got the brushing-your-teeth part down, but you may not have quite nailed flossing yet. Let’s be honest: It’s hard to remember to do, and it’s kind of a pain. Thankfully, there's a gadget that makes it a lot easier—the water flosser. There are many products to choose from and the best water flosser for you depends on your individual needs, but generally the ones that dentists approve of bear the ADA Seal of Acceptance.

It shows they have undergone rigorous testing and research to ensure that they do what they claim safely and effectively, says Ruchi K. Sahota, DDS, a family dentist in Freemont, California.

Before diving into the nitty-gritty, let's get the basics straight first: A water flosser, also known as an oral irrigator, uses a highly pressurized, pulsating stream of water to remove food, plaque, and debris from your teeth and gums. Many dentists agree that water flossers greatly reduce existing gingivitis and improve overall gum health.

For people who struggle to reach certain areas of their mouth with traditional string floss, like those with braces or bridges, a water flosser is a great option, says Bobbi Stanley, DDS, a general and cosmetic dentist and the owner of Stanley Dentistry in Cary, North Carolina. It’s also good for those who like the feeling of the water spray and have difficulty maneuvering string floss.

Check out some of the best water flossers below:

And once a day is really all you need to get the job done. “Using the water flosser before you brush at night is a great way to knock out any food debris from the day and give your toothbrush a more effective role in cleaning your teeth,” Dr. Stanley says.

Ultimately, whichever you choose, keep your dentist in the loop.“This helps your dentist or hygienist ensure that the switch was worth it, and that you are utilizing the new dental product correctly,” Dr. Sahota says.

Want to get the perks of a water flosser but have no clue which one to buy? Here are nine ADA-approved water flossers recommended by dentists for all kinds of needs, whether you're in the market for one for your whole family, looking for something that'll work with the hardware in your mouth, or an on-the-go option when you travel.

Meet the experts: Bobbi Stanley, DDS, is a general and cosmetic dentist and the owner of Stanley Dentistry in Cary, North Carolina. Ruchi K. Sahota, DDS, is a family dentist in Freemont, California.