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A dentist explains the ins and outs of oral irrigation

There is no grooming trend that sounds more disastrous than water flossing – and yet here we are, talking all about the benefits of oral irrigation. Turns out, flossing with a fine, powerful jet of water isn’t just surprisingly practical, but it’s efficacious too. Wield one correctly, and you’ll have cleaner teeth (and a happy hygienist) with very little effort.

As dentist Dr Abdul Azizi explains, a water flosser is an especially practical investment for anyone who doesn’t get on with traditional floss. “Dental floss, picks and tape are all designed to scrape between the teeth, removing any debris. However, they can be hard to use – particularly if you have had crowns or braces fitted, or if you have sensitive gums which are prone to bleeding. Many people also find it difficult to use traditional flossing tools to get to each individual tooth, particularly at the back of the mouth.”

According to Azizi, many people find a water flosser much easier to use for a deeper, more satisfying clean. “These devices work by spraying a high pressure jet of water between your teeth to remove food and bacteria. Water flossers come with a refillable water tank so you are able to constantly spray water as you move around your mouth, and most have a variety of tips to suit.”

The most advanced flossers out there come with variable water pressure settings (good news for those with sensitive gums) and some have features for cleaning your tongue. “All come with replaceable tips so that they can be used by different members of the family, and there are varied tips to suit those who have braces and who have had implants," adds Azizi.

Some flossers are much sleeker than others, so check the size of the water tank if you don't fancy making yours the centrepiece of your bathroom. Some are cordless (easy) while others are not (potentially annoying). And if you’ve got braces or implants, be sure to invest in a model with specialist tips that’ll allow you to reach into those tight spots.

Using your water flosser correctly is important: wield with abandon, and chaos will ensue. However, it’s also fairly easy: simply fill the tank, then place the tip of the flosser inside your mouth before turning it on.

Most dentists recommend using your flosser before brushing to ensure you get the most thorough clean, and the pressure setting you use is really down to personal preference (sensitive souls will appreciate a softer jet). A flosser with in-built whitening tablets is a good idea if you struggle with tea and coffee stains.

Just like your toothbrush, it’s important to change the tip on your water flosser: Dr Azizi recommends an average of every three to six months. Here, see the top models on the market now: every one is cordless and offers at-least two pressure settings.

From the water-flossing specialists, this popular cordless device boasts all the add-ons you could want. There’s a grip coating (handier than it sounds) and two pressure settings. There are three tips and a tongue cleaner included, and you’ll get 45 seconds of flossing action from a full 210 ml tank.

This one boasts a 360 degree rotating nozzle to ensure you can access all areas of your mouth. There are three operating modes, and the strongest of which delivers the highest pressure of any flosser we’ve seen. A strong choice for the less sensitive.

With 10 pressure settings, an extra-large water reservoir and the option to add a whitening tablet, this is the big one. It’s also literally the biggest (with a 600ml tank) so you’ll have to make space on the shelf, but few come close when it comes to lifting tea stains and brightening your smile.

This one has the lowest pressure and the largest water tank, yet is still sleek enough to be tucked away under the sink. The softest setting is ideal for those with sensitive gums and bleeding issues, working to improve gum health without causing irritation. The jet is extra-fine and easy to direct, which is good news for your bathroom walls.

It might not be the most attractive option on the shelf, but Panasonic’s water flosser will get the job done just as well. It’s cordless and features three different modes, including a gentle 'massage’ option for gum health. The reservoir only contains enough water for 35 seconds of flossing, but that should be enough for your daily treatment.

Oral B’s ‘Oxyjet’ technology apparently purifies the air in your mouth, contributing to healthy gums. Jargon aside, this is a strong option, with a choice of three pressure settings and an in-built water reservoir that negates the need for a bulky tank.