Water flossers (commonly known as “Waterpiks,” though that is a name brand) are typically marketed as being a convenient replacement for traditional dental floss. However, they can’t remove plaque and bacteria as thoroughly or completely as threaded floss. Overall, no product rivals the benefits of getting a physical object between the teeth and mechanically removing buildup. Still, a water flosser can be a great addition to your existing home care regimen. They are particularly good at removing packed-in food that your toothbrush can’t dislodge. Patients with gum disease will typically see the most benefit from a water flosser. The lowered height of gingival tissue allows the water to more effectively penetrate the periodontal space and remove debris.