Water Flosser vs. String Floss: What Your Canton Dentist Actually Recommends

If you’ve spent any time on TikTok or Instagram lately, you’ve probably seen water flossers everywhere. Brands like Waterpik have gone viral, with millions of users swearing that this tool transformed their gum health. But as dentists serving the Canton, GA community, patients ask us all the time: “Should I switch from string floss to a water flosser?”

The honest answer? It depends — and for most people, the best answer is both. Here’s everything you need to know.

What Is a Water Flosser?

A water flosser (like a Waterpik) is a handheld device that shoots a pressurized stream of water between your teeth and along the gumline. It was originally designed for people with braces, dental implants, bridges, or other dental work that makes traditional flossing difficult — but it’s become mainstream thanks to its convenience and the very satisfying results people see.

Pros and Cons: Water Flosser

• PROS: Excellent for people with braces, implants, crowns, or bridges

• PROS: Easier to use for people with limited dexterity or arthritis

• PROS: Great for flushing out deep pockets around the gumline

• CONS: Does not physically scrape plaque from between teeth the way floss does

• CONS: More expensive upfront and requires charging/refilling

Pros and Cons: String Floss

• PROS: Physically removes plaque and debris from between teeth

• PROS: Inexpensive and available everywhere

• PROS: Gold standard recommended by the ADA for decades

• CONS: Difficult to use around braces, implants, or bridges

• CONS: Many people skip it because it’s time-consuming or uncomfortable

Our Canton Dentist’s Recommendation

The best flossing tool is the one you’ll actually use every day. If string floss is causing you to skip flossing entirely, a water flosser is a significant upgrade. If you have dental implants, a bridge, or braces, a water flosser is highly recommended. For everyone else, using string floss daily is still the gold standard — but adding a water flosser as a supplement is a great idea.

Bottom line: the best routine is to string floss first (to scrape the plaque) and then use your water flosser to flush everything out. Think of string floss as the scrubbing, and the water flosser as the rinse.

Questions? Ask Us at Your Next Cleaning!

At Sunrise Family Dentistry, we love helping patients find oral hygiene habits that actually work for their lifestyle. At your next cleaning, just ask — we’re happy to show you the best flossing technique for your specific situation.

Book your spring cleaning at (470) 863-1169 or flexbook.me/Sunrise. Located at 11242 Cumming Hwy, Suite 109, Canton, GA. Proudly serving Canton, Cumming, Alpharetta, Ball Ground, and Hickory Flat.