A water flosser, also known as an oral irrigator or dental water jet, is a handheld oral care device that directs a stream of water between your teeth and gums to remove food debris, plaque, and bacteria. It is a home dental care device that uses a stream of high-pressure pulsating water to remove dental plaque and food debris between teeth and below the gum line. Compared to traditional string floss, water flossers are easier to use and dont require you to put your hands in your mouth or deal with string floss.

Water flossers typically include a reservoir to hold the water, an electric motor to power the pump, and a special nozzle. The motor and pump cause a stream of pressurized water to flow from the reservoir, through the nozzle, and between teeth, to remove plaque, food particles, and bacteria. Most top-rated water flossers have adjustable pressure capability, perfect for those with sensitive gums, implants, or braces. A pulsating water setting is particularly effective at loosening tough-to-reach food particles.

Water flossers are not a replacement for brushing your teeth but are used as an alternative or in addition to string floss, interdental brushes, or floss threaders to remove plaque and debris that brushing and string flossing leave behind. The correct technique is key. To use a water flosser, place the flosser tip in your mouth, close your lips most of the way, and lean over the sink. Then turn the power on. As you floss along the gumline and between your teeth, allow the water to empty from your mouth into the sink.

In summary, a water flosser is a home dental care device that uses a stream of high-pressure pulsating water to remove dental plaque and food debris between teeth and below the gum line. It is an alternative or addition to traditional string floss, interdental brushes, or floss threaders to remove plaque and debris that brushing and string flossing leave behind.