The ADA recommends cleaning between your teeth daily with floss, interdental brushes, water flossers or similar tools. A 2019 Cochrane review found that adding floss or interdental brushes to brushing may reduce gum inflammation, with interdental brushes looking most effective, and that evidence for water flossers is limited but suggests a benefit for gingivitis. The best tool is the one you will use every day.
Cleaning between teeth reaches the areas a toothbrush misses. Which tool you use matters less than using it daily.
Options
| Tool | Strengths | Watch for |
|---|---|---|
| String floss | Cheap, portable, tight contacts | Technique; harder with braces |
| Floss picks | Easy one-handed | Can be less thorough |
| Interdental brushes | Effective where gaps allow | Need the right sizes |
| Water flosser | Easy with braces, bridges, implants | Cost, counter space, mess at first |
What research says
A 2019 Cochrane review of interdental cleaning found:
- Floss plus brushing may reduce gingivitis compared with brushing alone.
- Interdental brushes plus brushing may reduce gingivitis more than floss.
- Oral irrigators (water flossers) may reduce gingivitis, with low-certainty evidence.
Evidence for preventing cavities between teeth was limited for all tools.
Choosing a water flosser
| Spec | Why |
|---|---|
| Pressure range | Adjustable, starting low |
| Reservoir | Bigger means fewer refills; cordless models hold less |
| Tips | Orthodontic, implant and periodontal tips |
| Countertop or cordless | Power vs portability |
| ADA Seal | Independent review of claims |
Replace tips per the maker, often every three to six months.
Pair it with the right brush; see oscillating vs sonic. Ask your dental team about bleeding gums. Browse flossing and interdental.
Common questions
Is a water flosser as good as flossing?
Evidence is limited, but water flossers may help reduce gingivitis. Many people use them more consistently, which matters.
Do water flossers help with braces?
They are popular with braces and bridges because they clean around brackets and wires easily. Ask your orthodontist.
Are interdental brushes better than floss?
Research suggests interdental brushes may reduce gum inflammation more than floss where they fit between teeth.
What pressure should I use on a water flosser?
Start low and increase gradually to a comfortable setting.