Ever ask yourself, can mouthwash elevate your water flosser? You've bought a water flosser to bring your oral hygiene to the next level, but can you safely put mouthwash in your flosser to get that extra kick of freshness?
This is a query that's on many users' minds, looking to elevate their oral hygiene with one simple device. But the response might shock you. While mouthwash might be the go-to option, it's good to know the pros as well as the cons involved.
In this article, we're going to explore whether or not you can put mouthwash in a water flosser and whether it's the best choice for your smile. Join us as we explore the advantages, disadvantages, and best practices for getting the most out of your water flossing routine.
What is a Water Flosser?
A water flosser, or oral irrigator, is a machine that employs a pulsing stream of water to dislodge food particles and plaque between your teeth and gums. Unlike conventional flossing, which can be harsh on sore gums, a water flosser offers a gentler method to a healthy, clean mouth. The device sprays pressurized water at a steady rate, which is very effective at removing hard-to-clean areas with regular floss.
Click here to read our expert guide on 'how to use a water flosser.'
Can You Use Mouthwash in a Water Flosser?
The quick answer is yes, technically you can fill a water flosser with mouthwash—but it's not always the best option. Although the addition of mouthwash may appear as a quick solution to optimizing the freshness of your flossing routine, there are a couple of things to remember.
First, mouthwash generally has alcohol and harsh chemicals in it that will eventually break your flosser down. Those harsh chemicals would disintegrate the inner mechanisms, causing it to clog or break down. Some mouthwashes also have dyes or abrasives that would irritate your gums or hinder the function of your device.
That said, some people use mouthwash in their water flossers with no apparent issues, especially if they dilute it. If you do try experimenting, you'll need to find an alcohol-free, non-abrasive mouthwash that won't harm your gums or your flosser. It's ultimately possible to do it, but really not the best way to use a water flosser for optimal oral hygiene.
Risks and Considerations of Using Mouthwash in a Water Flosser
Even though it might seem tempting to utilize mouthwash in a water flosser, there are risks. The largest risk is to the flosser itself.
Damage to Flosser
The majority of mouthwashes have alcohol in them, which, over time, will dry out and destroy the seals and other components of the flosser. This can lead to malfunctions or even make the device inoperable, especially with heavy use. Some mouthwashes have chemicals that will clog up the tubing or nozzle of the water flosser, leading to uneven water flow and reduced cleaning capacity.
Irritation to Gum and Mouth Cavity
The other risk is irritation to your gums and oral tissues. Mouthwash is supposed to be used within your mouth for short spans of time, but extended exposure, especially in a high-concentration formula, can irritate your gums or make them sensitive. If your gums are sensitive or you have any existing oral issues, mouthwash used in a water flosser could aggravate them.
Inefficient Flossing
Finally, mouthwash may not deliver all of the benefits of water flossing. Water is sufficient to clean between your teeth and along the gum line, but mouthwash can alter the stream of water, reducing the efficiency of the cleaning action. If you like the benefits of mouthwash, use it after water flossing, not in combination with the flosser.
Professional Advice on How to Use Water Flosser with Mouthwash
Dental experts typically advise against the use of mouthwash in a water flosser due to the risks highlighted above. They also state, however, that if you have to do it, you can dilute the mouthwash with water. Diluting the strength of potentially toxic chemicals can protect your oral tissues and the equipment. If you have to use mouthwash, use a gentle, alcohol-free mouthwash that will not harm your gums and the equipment.
Certain dental practitioners suggest a superior option: use a water flosser as intended, with only water, and then mouthwash rinse. This will enable you to get the maximum benefit of both products without harming the device or your mouth. It's also advisable to rinse your water flosser well after every use, especially if you use mouthwash, so that the leftover substance does not clog the device.
The Top Water Flossers for Optimal Oral Hygiene
If you are trying to find a water flosser that provides a good, hassle-free oral care experience, you should choose a model that delivers consistent performance without risking damage. Oclean AirPump A10 Water Flosser is an excellent model, offering excellent cleaning performance and user-friendly design. It has different pressure levels, allowing you to customize your flossing experience, catering to sensitive gums and yet offering a good clean.
Its compact nature allows you to take it with you wherever you need to be, ideal for those with hectic lifestyles or who are always on the go. And, with a battery life that will last a long time and easy-to-clean parts, the AirPump A10 ensures that it is easy to keep you and your water flosser on good terms for years to come. By opting for a good-quality item such as the Oclean AirPump A10, you can have faith in your water flossing being safe and effective without having to alter your oral hygiene routine.
The Bottom Line
In brief, it might technically work to fill a water flosser with mouthwash, but it is not ideal for regular oral hygiene. The possible harm to your flosser and possible gum irritation are not worth the benefits. Instead, include a plain water option on your flosser, followed by a calming rinse with mouthwash. For a dependable, effective, and efficient water flosser, try the Oclean AirPump A10 Water Flosser. It offers superior performance, is gentle on sensitive gums, and makes it easier than ever to achieve optimum oral health.
