The 8 Very Best Water Flossers – New York Magazine
Maintaining impeccable oral hygiene goes beyond just brushing your teeth. Water flossers have become a game-changer for many, providing an effective and gentle way to clean between teeth and along the gumline. If you’re looking to upgrade your dental care routine, you’ve come to the right place. In this comprehensive guide, New York Magazine reveals the 8 very best water flossers available on the market, highlighting their features, benefits, and why they stand out. Whether you have braces, sensitive gums, or just want fresher breath, these water flossers cover all your needs.
Why Choose a Water Flosser?
Traditional flossing can be tricky, uncomfortable, and easy to forget. Water flossers offer a modern alternative with numerous benefits:
- Gentle and effective: Uses a pressurized stream of water to remove plaque and food particles where toothbrushes can’t reach.
- Great for braces and implants: Safely cleans around orthodontic appliances and dental implants.
- Improves gum health: Helps reduce inflammation and bleeding associated with gum disease.
- Easy to use: Suitable for all ages, including those with limited manual dexterity.
- Encourages better oral hygiene habits: Many find water flossing more enjoyable, leading to consistent use.
Top 8 Water Flossers According to New York Magazine
| Model | Type | Pressure Settings | Special Features | Average Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Waterpik Aquarius | Countertop | 10 | Timer, Pressure Control, 7 Tips | $70 – $90 |
| Philips Sonicare AirFloss Ultra | Portable | 3 | Quick bursts, Microburst technology | $80 – $100 |
| H2ofloss HF-8 Whisper | Countertop | 12 | Quiet motor, 6 Tips | $50 – $70 |
| Waterpik Cordless Advanced | Portable | 3 | Rechargeable, Travel-friendly | $80 – $110 |
| Panasonic EW-DJ10-A | Portable | 2 | Compact, Battery Operated | $30 – $50 |
| Oral-B OxyJet | Countertop | 3 | Microbubbles Tech, 4 Tips | $90 – $110 |
| AXIOM Ultrasonic Water Flosser | Countertop | 7 | Advanced Pulsations, Large Tank | $60 – $85 |
| H2ofloss Waterpik Alternative HF-9 | Countertop | 12 | Automatic Timer, Quiet Mode | $60 – $80 |
Detailed Reviews: Features & Benefits
1. Waterpik Aquarius
Widely endorsed by dentists, the Waterpik Aquarius stands out for its robust performance and user-friendly features. It offers ten pressure settings ranging from gentle to strong, equipped with a built-in timer to ensure adequate flossing time per quadrant. With seven different tips, it’s suitable for the entire family, including those with braces or implants.
2. Philips Sonicare AirFloss Ultra
If you’re looking for portability without sacrificing efficiency, the AirFloss Ultra is hard to beat. Its unique microburst technology delivers quick bursts of air and water droplets, ideal for busy lifestyles. The compact design makes it perfect for travel and on-the-go use.
3. H2ofloss HF-8 Whisper
The HF-8 Whisper boasts a powerful yet quiet motor and twelve pressure settings, providing users with a highly customizable experience. It’s an affordable but feature-rich alternative to higher-end brands with comprehensive tip options.
4. Waterpik Cordless Advanced
Combining portability with Waterpik’s trusted performance, the Cordless Advanced is rechargeable and excellent for travel. Its three pressure settings and ergonomic design make it suitable for daily use whether at home or on the road.
5. Panasonic EW-DJ10-A
Best suited for those on a budget or just trying water flossing for the first time, the Panasonic EW-DJ10-A is compact, battery-operated, and simple to use. It has two pressure levels, making it ideal for users with sensitive gums.
6. Oral-B OxyJet
The OxyJet employs microbubble technology alongside water pressure to enhance oral health by reducing plaque and gum inflammation. It features three pressure modes and multiple tip options, focusing on therapeutic benefits.
7. AXIOM Ultrasonic Water Flosser
This ultrasonic model uses advanced pulsations to clean teeth effectively. The large water tank allows for longer flossing sessions, and seven pressure settings offer a customizable experience at a reasonable price point.
8. H2ofloss Waterpik Alternative HF-9
Another strong contender from H2ofloss, the HF-9 is noted for its quiet operation, automatic timer, and twelve pressure levels. It combines affordability with high-end features.
Practical Tips for Using a Water Flosser
- Start on low pressure: Begin with the gentlest setting to avoid gum irritation, gradually increasing pressure as you get comfortable.
- Angle the tip correctly: Aim the water stream at a 90-degree angle to your gumline for the most effective cleaning.
- Use daily: Consistency is key to improving gum health and reducing plaque buildup.
- Follow instructions: Each model has different features—consult the manual for optimal use and maintenance.
- Combine with brushing: Water flossing should complement, not replace, your brushing routine.
Case Study: Improved Oral Health with Waterpik Aquarius
Jessica, a 35-year-old New Yorker with braces, struggled with traditional flossing due to discomfort and difficulty navigating wires. After switching to the Waterpik Aquarius recommended by her dentist and featured in New York Magazine’s reviews, she noticed a significant reduction in gum soreness and bleeding within weeks. The adjustable pressure settings allowed her to customize her routine, boosting her compliance and confidence. Jessica’s story illustrates how the right water flosser can transform oral care for people with orthodontics.
Conclusion: Choose the Best Water Flosser for You
Water flossers are invaluable tools for enhancing oral hygiene, improving gum health, and simplifying dental care. The 8 best water flossers featured by New York Magazine cover all patient needs, from portable options perfect for travelers to countertop models with professional-grade features. By selecting a water flosser that fits your lifestyle and dental condition, you’re taking a significant step toward a healthier mouth. Remember, pairing water flossing with regular brushing and dental checkups creates the ultimate oral care routine.
Ready to upgrade? Consider your budget, lifestyle, and specific oral health needs when choosing from these top-rated water flossers. Happy flossing!
