### What is a Waterpik? A Waterpik, also known as a water flosser, is a device that sprays water to clean between your teeth. It can be a good substitute for traditional flossing, especially for those who find flossing hard. While it may not work as well as flossing in all cases, a Waterpik can still remove plaque and reduce gum disease. If you have braces, dental implants, or other dental work, a Waterpik may be especially helpful for cleaning hard-to-reach areas. Talk to your dentist about whether a Waterpik is a good addition to your oral care routine. ### How to Use a Waterpik 1. **Fill the Reservoir**: Fill your water flosser's reservoir with lukewarm water. 2. **Position the Tip**: Put the flosser tip in your mouth and lean over the sink to avoid a mess. 3. **Turn it On**: Turn on the device and hold the handle at a 90-degree angle to your teeth. 4. **Clean Your Teeth**: Spray water between your teeth, starting at the back and working your way around your mouth. Focus on the top of your teeth, the gum line, and the spaces between each tooth. 5. **Empty the Reservoir**: When you're done, empty any extra water from the reservoir to prevent bacteria growth. ### Benefits of Using a Waterpik - **Removes Food Particles**: Helps remove food stuck between your teeth. - **Reduces Gum Disease**: Can reduce gum disease and bleeding. - **Easy to Use**: Especially helpful for people with braces, dental work, or arthritis. - **Improves Gum Health**: The massaging action can improve gum health by reducing bleeding and making gums stronger. ### Tips for Best Results - **Start with Lower Pressure**: When using a water flosser for the first time, start with a lower pressure and work your way up to a comfortable setting. - **Use Before or After Brushing**: You can use the water flosser before or after brushing your teeth. - **Replace Nozzles**: If sharing the device, replace the nozzle to lower the risk of spreading bacteria. ### Conclusion A Waterpik can be a valuable addition to your oral care routine, especially if you have trouble with traditional flossing. Consult your dentist to see if it's right for you.