Water flossing is more efficient than string flossing at removing dental plaque
the verdict
SUPPORTED
the evidence backs this
confidence 83/100
Recent clinical studies and systematic reviews indicate that water flossers are at least as effective as—and in certain interdental or implant areas superior to—traditional string floss in removing dental plaque and reducing gingival inflammation.
Evidence for · 3
Effectiveness of Super Floss and Water Flosser in Plaque Removal for Patients Undergoing Orthodontic Treatment: A Randomized Controlled Trial
2022 · cited by 16
A randomized controlled trial found that a water flosser achieved greater plaque removal efficacy on distal interproximal molar surfaces compared to super floss.
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More for · 2
Comparing the effectiveness of water flosser and dental floss in plaque reduction among adults: A systematic review
2023 · cited by 12
A systematic review concluded that the majority of studies favored water flossers over dental floss in interdental plaque reduction and reaching inaccessible areas.
Efficacy of oral irrigators compared to other interdental aids for managing peri-implant diseases: a systematic review.
2025 · cited by 2
A systematic review noted that implant sites where oral irrigators were used showed significantly greater reduction in bleeding and plaque compared to sites where floss was used.