Quick answer

String floss remains the gold standard for cleaning tight spaces between teeth, but water flossers are a proven alternative for reducing plaque and improving gum health, especially for people who struggle with traditional floss. The best choice depends on your dexterity, dental work, and willingness to floss consistently.

How they clean: mechanical vs. hydraulic action

String floss works by physically scraping plaque off the sides of teeth and just below the gumline. It requires a sawing motion and proper technique to be effective. Water flossers use a pulsating stream of water to flush away food particles and plaque from between teeth and along the gumline. This hydraulic action can reach areas that are difficult to access with string, such as around braces, bridges, and implants.

Evidence on gum health and plaque removal

Clinical studies show that water flossers can reduce plaque and gingivitis. For example, the Modern Gray Aquarius Water Flosser is clinically proven up to 50% more effective for improving gum health vs. string floss. However, string floss still has an edge for removing plaque from tight contacts between teeth where water may not reach with enough force. For overall gum health, both can be effective when used daily.

Practical considerations: time, technique, and mess

String floss is portable, inexpensive, and requires no electricity or refills. But it can be frustrating for people with limited dexterity, braces, or dental work. Water flossers take up counter space, need water, and may splash. They also require a learning curve to avoid spraying water everywhere. The Classic Professional Water Flosser offers six water pressure settings to customize gentle-to-deep cleansing, which helps new users adjust gradually.

Who should choose which?

If you have healthy gums, tight contacts, and good flossing technique, string floss is a reliable, low-cost choice. If you have gum disease, braces, implants, or simply won't floss consistently, a water flosser can be a game-changer. The Evolution Water Flosser removes up to 99.9% of plaque from treated areas, making it a strong option for those who want thorough cleaning with less manual effort.

Trade-offs at a glance

  • Cleaning tight spaces: String floss scrapes plaque from tight contacts, while water flossers flush away debris but may not remove all plaque from very tight spaces. If your teeth are tightly spaced, consider using string floss in addition to a water flosser.
  • Gum health: Water flossers like the Modern Gray Aquarius are clinically proven up to 50% more effective for improving gum health vs. string floss. For bleeding gums or gingivitis, a water flosser may give you an edge.
  • Ease of use: String floss requires manual dexterity and can be time-consuming; water flossers are easier for many people, especially with braces or arthritis. Choose the tool you'll actually use daily—consistency matters more than the method.

Product facts

Which should you choose?

Best for

  • People with gum disease or bleeding gums who want a proven gum-health boost
  • Anyone with braces, bridges, or implants who finds string floss difficult
  • Those who want a faster, easier flossing routine they'll stick with

Not for

  • People with very tight tooth contacts who need the scraping action of string floss
  • Travelers who need an ultra-portable, no-electricity option
  • Those unwilling to clean and maintain a water flosser reservoir