Oral hygiene is extremely important for maintaining overall health. Brushing and flossing daily helps remove plaque and bacteria that can lead to cavities, gingivitis, and other dental issues. While regular string floss is effective, many find water flossing to be a more convenient and easier way to clean between teeth and along the gumline.
Water flossers use a stream of water to remove food particles and plaque from areas that brushing alone often misses. Regular water flossing has been clinically proven to be up to 50% more effective than string floss for reducing gingivitis and bleeding gums. The pulsating water jet reaches deep between teeth and below the gumline to thoroughly clean away harmful bacteria.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ve reviewed the top water flossers on the market and provide a detailed comparison of the features and performance to help you choose the best model for your needs and budget.
How to Choose the Best Water Flosser
There are a few key factors to consider when selecting a water flosser:
- Water pressure – Measured in PSI (pounds per square inch), look for a model with pressure settings up to 90 PSI for the most effective cleaning. Higher pressure is ideal for penetrating deeper between teeth.
- Water capacity – The water reservoir size determines how long you can use it before refilling. Larger capacities around 600ml are more convenient.
- Special features – Some models have unique nozzle designs, massage modes, timers, and storage options. Evaluate which features would be most beneficial for your usage.
- Cordless option – Cordless water flossers offer greater portability and convenience, while corded models typically have higher water pressure capabilities.
- Brand reputation – Stick with reputable brands like Waterpik and Philips Sonicare that are known for quality and performance.
- Budget – Water flosser prices range from $40 to $200. Make sure to get the features you need without overspending.
Carefully considering these key buying factors will help you select the best water flosser to meet your oral hygiene needs and preferences.
14 Best Water Flossers for Healthier Teeth and Gums
1. Waterpik Aquarius Water Flosser (WF-06)
- Pressure range: 10-90 PSI
- Reservoir: 90 seconds of water capacity
- Special features: massage mode, timer, 10 pressure settings
- Bonus: 7 water flossing tips
The Waterpik Aquarius WF-06 is among the most popular water flossers thanks to its powerful cleaning performance and versatility. The advanced pressure range provides a customized clean while the large reservoir means less refilling. Convenient features include massage mode, a built-in timer, and 10 pressure settings. It also includes seven flossing tips to target different areas. The Waterpik brand is the first to receive the ADA Seal of Acceptance.
2. Panasonic EW-DJ10-A Portable Dental Water Flosser
- Pressure range: 10-100 PSI
- Reservoir: Approx. 16 ounces
- Special features: cordless/rechargeable, collapsible design, traveling case
- Bonus: 3 flossing tips
For those seeking enhanced portability, the Panasonic Portable Dental Water Flosser delivers the cleaning power of a corded flosser in a compact cordless model. The lithium ion battery provides up to 45 seconds of water capacity on a single charge. The collapsible design and included traveling case make it ultra-convenient for home use or on-the-go.
3. Philips Sonicare HX8332/02 AirFloss Ultra
- Pressure: Up to 40 PSI
- Reservoir: Approx. 45 seconds of water capacity
- Special features: cordless/rechargeable, air and micro-droplet technology
- Bonus: 2 flossing tips
The Philips Sonicare AirFloss Ultra utilizes a unique technology that combines air and water to floss effectively with minimal effort. The handheld cordless design is easy to maneuver to all areas of the mouth. It delivers up to 40 gentle bursts per use and the reservoir lasts about 45 seconds before refilling. This is a great flosser for those with dexterity challenges.
4. Waterpik Cordless Advanced Water Flosser (WF-03)
- Pressure range: 2 settings (45/75 PSI)
- Reservoir: Up to 45 seconds of water capacity
- Special features: cordless/rechargeable, 3 pressure settings, tip storage in base
Waterpik’s Cordless Advanced Water Flosser provides the convenience of cordless operation with two pressure settings to choose from based on your cleaning needs. The compact design is ideal for small bathrooms. The reservoir and tip can be stored neatly in the base. It provides up to 45 seconds of runtime and charges fully in 4 hours.
5. Nicefeel Cordless Dental Oral Irrigator
- Pressure range: 10-110 PSI
- Reservoir: 300ml capacity
- Special features: cordless/rechargeable, 5 pressure settings, low noise motor
- Bonus: 4 flossing tips
This Nicefeel water flosser has a high-capacity 300ml removable water tank so you can clean for up to 90 seconds before refilling. There are 5 pressure settings to choose from. For easier nighttime use, it has a low noise motor and built-in LED light. The IPX7 waterproof rating means you can safely use it in the shower. A 2-year warranty provides peace of mind.
6. h2ofloss® Quiet HF-8WH Water Dental Flosser
- Pressure range: 10-110 PSI
- Reservoir: 800ml capacity
- Special features: 12 pressure settings, BPA-free water tank, quiet operation
- Bonus: 12 multifunctional tips
With an extra large 800ml reservoir, the h20floss HF-8WH provides 90-120 seconds of uninterrupted flossing time. The 12 pressure settings ensure suitable water pressure for all user sensitivities. Tips rotate 360 degrees for better adaptability and the BPA-free tank is safer and more durable. As a bonus, it includes a full set of 12 tips.
7. Gurin Professional Rechargeable Cordless Water Flosser
- Pressure range: 5 settings
- Reservoir: 180ml capacity
- Special features: cordless/rechargeable, portable charging base, whisper quiet
- Bonus: 4 tips
The Gurin Professional Cordless Water Flosser allows you to clean your teeth anywhere with the rechargeable design. The lithium-ion battery holds enough charge for up to 30 days of regular use. The 180ml capacity offers 30-60 seconds of flossing time. Five pressure settings accommodate different sensitivity levels.
8. ShowerBreeze Luxury Shower Water Flosser SB-3
- Pressure range: 3 settings
- Reservoir: N/A (connects to shower)
- Special features: attaches to shower, self-cleaning nozzles, stop/start lever
- Bonus: 4 tips
The ShowerBreeze SB-3 eliminates the need for refilling by connecting directly to your shower pipe. Adjustable pressure combines with rotating nozzle tips to deliver a customized clean. The easy-to-install design doesn’t require tools or professional installation. The stop/start lever allows you to pause mid-floss.
9. B.WE Cordless Water Flosser
- Pressure range: 5 settings
- Reservoir: 300ml capacity
- Special features: cordless/rechargeable, 3 modes, USB charging, IPX7 waterproof
- Bonus: 4 multifunctional tips
Offering the most versatility for the price, the B.WE Cordless Water Flosser has settings for flossing, cleaning, and whitening modes. The long-lasting lithium battery supports 20 days of use per charge. The convenient USB charging means you can power up from any port. It also has an IPX7 waterproof rating for use in the shower if desired.
10. Mospro Cordless Water Flosser with LED Display
- Pressure range: 10 settings
- Reservoir: 310ml capacity
- Special features: cordless/rechargeable, LED pressure/battery display, lighted mirror
- Bonus: 4 tips
This advanced cordless Mospro flosser allows you to monitor pressure and battery levels with the convenient LED display. The built-in mirrored visual reminder encourages more consistent flossing. The lithium-ion battery supports up to 30 days per charge. With 10 pressure levels and 4 tips, it provides complete flossing capabilities.
11. MOSCHE Oscillating Toothbrush and Water Flosser Set
- Pressure range: 5 settings
- Reservoir: 300ml capacity
- Special features: cordless/rechargeable, cleaning modes, 30-day battery life
- Bonus: 4 brush heads, 4 tips
Get your toothbrush and water flosser in one convenient rechargeable set. The MOSCHE set has 5 flossing pressure levels and 3 brushing modes: clean, soft, and massage. The 300ml detachable water tank offers 45-60 seconds of flossing time. Fully charged, it can be used for up to 30 days.
12. H2Oral Water Dental Flosser Advanced Design
- Pressure range: 10 settings
- Reservoir: 550ml capacity
- Special features: large LED display, reservoir windows, flossing tip rotates 360°
- Bonus: 5 flossing tips
The H20ral Advanced Water Flosser has great customizability with 10 pressure settings visible on a large LED display. The generous 550ml reservoir has clear windows so you can easily view the remaining water level. For added convenience, the tip rotates a full 360 degrees to reach anywhere.
13. Poseidon PS-5WB Water Flosser
- Pressure range: 10 settings
- Reservoir: 320ml capacity
- Special features: Ortho tip for braces, finger grip handle design, 4 modes
- Bonus: 4 tips + 4 brush heads
The Poseidon PS-5WB features an ergonomic handle with non-slip finger grips, making it comfortable to maneuver all around the mouth. The four cleaning modes include a gentle mode that adds air for sensitive teeth and gums. Also included are two unique brush heads for more thorough cleaning between teeth.
14. KEDSUM 1600ml Professional Water Dental Flosser
- Pressure range: 10 settings
- Reservoir: 1600ml capacity
- Special features: high capacity tank, multifunctional valve, LCD display
- Bonus: 10 tips
Boasting an extra large 1600ml water tank, the KEDSUM Professional Water Flosser can operate up to 300 seconds continuously. The digital display shows the timer setting and selected pressure while the multifunction valve allows you to control water flow and pressure simultaneously.
Water Flosser FAQs
Water flossing is an effective alternative to string floss that offers several benefits. Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about water flossers.
Q: Is water flossing better than regular flossing?
Water flossing and string flossing both have advantages. Water flossing uses a focused stream of water to clean deep between teeth and gently massage gums. This makes it more effective at removing plaque and food debris than regular floss in some cases. However, the ADA recommends using both water and string flossing for optimal oral health.
Q: How often should you use a water flosser?
For the best results, use your water flosser once per day, ideally in the evening to flush away any food debris and bacteria from the day’s meals. Water flossing is gentle and safe enough to use daily. Those with gum disease may benefit from using it twice per day.
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Q: Is water flossing safe for crowns, implants, and braces?
Yes, water flossing is not only safe but recommended for those with dental work like crowns, bridges, implants, and braces. The water stream is able to clean areas around these restorations that are harder to reach with regular floss. Select lower pressure settings and aim the water at a 90-degree angle.
Q: Does water flossing replace regular flossing?
Water flossing should not completely replace string flossing in your oral care routine. While water flossing is more effective between teeth, string floss helps remove plaque and bacteria from other surfaces. Using both methods daily provides comprehensive oral hygiene.
Q: Can you use a water flosser in the shower?
Certain water flosser models are designed to be waterproof and safe for using in the shower. Cordless water flossers can also easily be brought into the shower. This allows you to conveniently floss while bathing. Check your product description and manual to see if shower use is supported.
Q: How do you use a water flosser effectively?
To use a water flosser: Fill the reservoir with warm water, turn it on, set the pressure, and place the tip at a 90-degree angle into each space between teeth. Gently glide along the gumline and linger for a few seconds in each spot, working your way around the entire mouth. Finish by rinsing out your mouth thoroughly with water.
Choose the Best Water Flosser for Healthier Gums
With the capability to remove up to 99% of plaque from hard-to-reach areas, water flossing is an easy and highly effective way to improve gum health and prevent various dental issues. Carefully evaluate the water flosser options to select the model that best matches your budget and cleaning needs. Daily water flossing paired with brushing is sure to lead to cleaner teeth and healthier gums.
