The Best Water Flossers (and Who Actually Needs One)
Which water flosser to buy - countertop vs. cordless, Waterpik vs. Sonicare - and whether a water flosser can replace string floss.
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In this guide
If you know you should floss but rarely do, a water flosser might be the habit-changer you need. It's especially helpful with braces, bridges or implants. Here's which one to buy.
Can a water flosser replace regular floss?
For many people, it's a very good alternative, and the American Dental Association has given its Seal of Acceptance to several water flossers, including Waterpik models. A water flosser is especially useful if you have braces, implants, bridges or dexterity issues, or if string floss simply never happens. If you're unsure, ask your dentist. Some people do best using both.
Countertop vs. cordless
| Countertop | Cordless | |
|---|---|---|
| Water tank | Large. One fill lasts a full session. | Small. You may need to refill. |
| Pressure settings | Many | Fewer |
| Space | Needs counter space and an outlet | Store anywhere, use in the shower |
| Best for | Home use, braces, implants | Small bathrooms, travel |
The best water flossers
Best overall
Waterpik Aquarius Water Flosser (WP-660)
Best for Most people, especially with braces, implants or bridges
The countertop water flosser that everyone else is compared against. It has 10 pressure settings, several tips (including orthodontic and plaque tips) and a large reservoir that lasts a full session, and it carries the ADA Seal of Acceptance.
Why we like it
- 10 pressure settings, from very gentle to strong
- Large reservoir covers a full session
- ADA Seal of Acceptance
Worth knowing
- Noisy
- Needs counter space and an outlet
If you have the counter space, this is the one. The wide range of pressure settings means you can start very gentle (useful, because water flossing can feel intense at first) and work up as your gums adjust.
Best cordless
Waterpik Cordless Advanced (WP-560)
Best for Small bathrooms and travel
A rechargeable, cordless Waterpik that you can use right in the shower. The trade-off for portability is a small reservoir and fewer pressure settings, so you may need a refill mid-session.
Why we like it
- Cordless and travel-friendly
- Works in the shower
- Same trusted brand
Worth knowing
- Small reservoir means refills
- Only 3 pressure settings
Quietest
Philips Sonicare Power Flosser
Best for Anyone who hates noisy flossers
Philips' water flosser is noticeably quieter than a Waterpik and uses a wide "Quad Stream" nozzle that covers more area per pass. It has fewer settings than the Aquarius, but it's pleasant to use every day.
Why we like it
- Quiet
- Wide Quad Stream nozzle
- Cordless version available
Worth knowing
- Fewer modes and settings than Waterpik
- Tips are less widely stocked
Tips for first-time water flossers
- Start on the lowest setting. Increase it gradually over a couple of weeks.
- Lean over the sink with your mouth slightly closed to avoid splashing, and let the water drain out.
- Trace the gumline, pausing briefly between each tooth.
- Use lukewarm water. It's far more comfortable than cold.
- Some gum bleeding at first is common. If it continues beyond a week or two, check with your dentist.
FAQ
Are water flossers as good as string floss?
For many people they're an effective alternative, and several models carry the ADA Seal of Acceptance. They're especially helpful for braces, implants and bridges. Your dentist can advise what's best for your mouth.
Should I water floss before or after brushing?
Either works. Many people floss first to loosen debris, then brush. Consistency matters more than order.
Can I put mouthwash in a water flosser?
Check your model's instructions. Some manufacturers allow diluted mouthwash, but certain additives can damage the unit.