Why Water Flossers Help Kids with Braces

Braces are one of the best investments in your child’s long-term health, but they do come with a learning curve, especially when it comes to keeping teeth clean. Brushing is important, but flossing is what helps remove plaque and food particles from between teeth and around braces.

That’s where water flossers can make a big difference.

If you’ve struggled to get your child to floss regularly, or if traditional flossing feels too difficult with braces, a water flosser might just be the game-changer you need. Let’s explore how it works and why it’s such a great tool for kids in orthodontic treatment.

What Is a Water Flosser?

A water flosser (also called an oral irrigator) is a handheld device that uses a stream of pulsating water to clean between the teeth and along the gumline. Think of it as a high-powered rinse that can reach areas traditional floss might miss—especially around brackets and wires.

Popular brands include Waterpik®, Burst®, and Sonicare®, but there are many affordable options available that are easy for kids to use.

Why Flossing Is Extra Important with Braces

Braces create small spaces around the brackets and wires where food and plaque can easily build up. Without proper cleaning, this can lead to:

• Cavities
• Gum inflammation
• Bad breath
• White spots (permanent marks on teeth)

Traditional flossing can be tricky—threading floss under wires takes time and coordination, which can be frustrating for kids. Water flossers offer a more user-friendly and effective solution.

5 Big Reasons Why Water Flossers Help Kids with Braces

1. Easier to Use Than Traditional Floss

Let’s face it—most kids aren’t excited about flossing, and braces make it even harder. A water flosser takes the hassle out of the process, making it more likely your child will actually stick to a daily hygiene routine.

2. More Effective Around Brackets & Wires

Water flossers can reach areas that string floss struggles to access, like around the base of brackets, between tightly spaced teeth, and under the gumline. This results in a more thorough clean.

3. Gentle on Gums

Traditional flossing can sometimes cause irritation or bleeding, especially for kids who are new to it. Water flossers provide a gentler alternative that still gets the job done without causing discomfort.

4. Reduces Risk of Plaque Buildup & Gum Issues

Regular use of a water flosser helps reduce:

• Plaque accumulation
• Gingivitis (early gum disease)
• White spot lesions (which can occur during orthodontic treatment)

This helps ensure your child’s teeth not only move into alignment but stay healthy throughout the journey.

5. Makes Oral Care More Fun

Many kids enjoy the “gadget” factor of a water flosser. The cool sensation of the water and the ease of use can make daily flossing feel more like a fun routine than a chore.

What Age Can Kids Start Using a Water Flosser?

Most kids can begin using a water flosser around age 8 or 9, with adult supervision. It’s especially helpful once they start orthodontic treatment and need extra support in keeping their teeth clean.

At Bergen Orthodontics, we’re happy to recommend water flosser models that are safe and effective for young users—and we’ll show your child exactly how to use it during their visits.

Braces + Water Flosser = A Healthier Smile

Keeping your child’s teeth clean while wearing braces takes a little extra effort, but tools like water flossers make it simpler, faster, and more effective. When paired with regular brushing and orthodontic check-ins, a water flosser can help protect your child’s smile from plaque, cavities, and long-term damage.

At Bergen Orthodontics, we’re more than just a braces provider—we’re your partner in making sure your child’s smile stays healthy from start to finish. If you have questions about oral hygiene tools like water flossers or want personalized tips for your child, we’re here to help.

Schedule a visit today, and let us guide you through every step of your child’s orthodontic journey—with care, clarity, and confidence.