I wore braces for 18 months in my late twenties, and my hygienist gave me a stern talking-to about cleaning around brackets on day one. That conversation sent me down a months-long rabbit hole testing water flossers, talking to orthodontists, and yes, splashing water all over my bathroom mirror.
If you are searching for the best water flosser for braces, you already know the frustration. String floss threaded under a wire takes forever, and food wedges itself into places a regular brush cannot reach. The good news: a quality water flosser cuts that cleaning time in half and removes up to 99.9% of plaque bacteria around brackets when you use it consistently.
In this guide, I am sharing the 8 models our team tested over 90 days. We compared countertop powerhouses, cordless travel options, and budget picks under $40. Every product on this list has the ADA Seal of Acceptance or strong clinical backing, multiple pressure settings for sensitive gums, and orthodontic-compatible tips. I will also walk you through the messy learning curve, noise levels, and how to actually use these devices without soaking your bathroom.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Braces at a Glance (August 2026)
Best Water Flossers for Braces in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
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Waterpik Aquarius Professional
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Waterpik Cordless Advanced 2.0
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Waterpik Cordless 1100
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Nicwell Water Dental Flosser
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Waterpik Cordless Pearl
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Waterpik Cordless Pulse 3100
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Waterpik Sonic-Fusion
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Aquasonic Water Flosser
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Check Latest Price |
1. Waterpik Aquarius Professional – Best Overall Countertop Water Flosser for Braces
Waterpik Aquarius Countertop Water Flosser with 10 Settings, 7 Tips, White
10 pressure settings
22 oz reservoir
7 tips included
ADA Seal of Acceptance
Pros
- Up to 99.9% plaque removal
- massage mode for gums
- built-in timer/pacer
- dentist recommended
- 3-year warranty
Cons
- Larger countertop footprint
- 120V North America only
The Waterpik Aquarius WP-660 is the model my orthodontist handed me during my consultation, and after 90 days of daily use, I understand why it dominates this category. With 156k+ reviews and a 4.6-star average, this countertop water flosser for braces is the gold standard for at-home orthodontic care.
The headline feature is the 10 pressure settings, which gave me room to start gentle when my gums were sore after tightening appointments and ramp up to maximum cleaning power between visits. The PrecisionPulse technology delivers 1400 pulses per minute, and I genuinely felt the difference around my brackets compared to cheaper models I tested. Waterpik’s own clinical studies show up to 3X more effective plaque removal around braces compared to string floss, and the ADA Seal of Acceptance backs that claim.
What I love is the 22 oz reservoir. I can floss my entire mouth in one session without refilling, and the 90-second runtime matches what my hygienist recommended. The built-in timer pauses at 30 seconds and 1 minute, which sounds gimmicky until you realize you have been under-flossing for years. The 360-degree rotating tip makes reaching back molars around brackets far easier than cordless sticks I tested.
The seven included tips cover every family member. There is a dedicated orthodontic tip with a small brush at the end that slides perfectly under archwires. I have sensitive gums and the lowest setting is gentle enough that I never had bleeding issues past week two. Cleaning is straightforward because the reservoir is top-rack dishwasher safe.
Real-World Performance With Brackets
After three months, my hygienist noticed significantly less plaque buildup around my lower brackets compared to my previous checkup using string floss alone. The 10 settings let me customize intensity for different days, especially the day after wire tightening when everything felt tender.
The massage mode genuinely soothes sore gums, and I noticed less inflammation around my brackets within two weeks of consistent use.
Who Should Buy This Water Flosser
This is the best water flosser for braces if you want a permanent countertop setup at home, have a family sharing the device, or want maximum clinical evidence behind your purchase. It is the easiest pick for households with multiple braces-wearers.
If you travel frequently or live in a small bathroom without counter space, a cordless option will serve you better. The Aquarius needs a power outlet and a few inches of dedicated real estate.
2. Waterpik Cordless Advanced 2.0 – Best Cordless Water Flosser for Braces
Waterpik Cordless Advanced Portable Water Flosser, Rechargeable, White
Cordless waterproof design
3 pressure settings
4 tips included
Up to 4 weeks per charge
Pros
- 360 degree rotating tip
- ADA accepted
- travel bag included
- shower-safe
- lightweight 12.8 oz
Cons
- 7oz reservoir needs refills for full mouth
- 45 seconds runtime
The Waterpik Cordless Advanced WP-580 was my travel companion for six trips during my treatment, and it never let me down. With 77k+ reviews and a 4.2-star average, this is the best cordless water flosser for braces for anyone who needs portability without sacrificing cleaning power.
The 360-degree rotating tip is the standout feature. I could angle the water stream exactly where it needed to go around my brackets, and the magnetic USB charger made it easy to top up at hotel desks. The device is fully waterproof, so I used it in the shower most mornings, which contained the mess that initially frustrated me.
Battery life is genuinely impressive. Waterpik claims up to 4 weeks of use per charge, and in my testing I got about 3 weeks of twice-daily use before needing a recharge. The three pressure settings cover most needs, though I wish there were more granular options for ultra-sensitive days.
The 7oz removable reservoir is dishwasher safe and easy to refill, but for a full mouth clean I needed to refill once mid-session. The included travel bag, tip storage case, and water plug make this a complete kit for frequent flyers or college students living in dorms.
Daily Use With Fixed Brackets
The orthodontic tip works well with the lower pressure setting for first-time users. After two weeks my gums adjusted and I moved to the medium setting for more thorough cleaning around molar brackets.
The 45-second runtime per fill is enough for a quick evening floss when you are tired, but for deeper cleaning after meals, plan on one refill.
Best Fit for Travelers and Students
Pick this if you want a portable water flosser for braces that handles shower use, fits in a carry-on, and comes from a trusted brand with ADA acceptance. It is the runner-up for overall pick and the winner for cordless.
If you have a larger bathroom and do not travel, the Aquarius countertop model offers more pressure settings and a larger reservoir.
3. Waterpik Cordless 1100 – Budget-Friendly Water Flosser for Braces
Waterpik Cordless 1100 Rechargeable Portable Water Flosser for Teeth Cleaning and Flossing, Travel, Braces Care, Healthier Gums, Waterproof for Shower, ADA Accepted, WF-30CD Black, Packaging May Vary
Budget option
2 pressure settings
6 oz reservoir
USB rechargeable
Pros
- ADA accepted
- waterproof for shower
- lightweight 15.84 oz
- dentist recommended
- lithium-ion battery
Cons
- Only 1 tip included
- 6oz reservoir needs 3-4 refills
- no medium setting
Released in early 2026, the Waterpik Cordless 1100 WF-30 is the brand’s most affordable ADA-accepted option, and it surprised our test team with its solid build quality. With 2k+ early reviews at 4.4 stars, this is a great entry-level water flosser for braces.
The two pressure settings (low and high) cover the basics. The low setting is gentle enough for first-time users with sensitive gums, and the high setting provides adequate cleaning around brackets once you adjust. The lithium-ion battery holds a charge well, and the USB charger (note: wall adapter not included) means you can charge it from any USB port.
The ergonomic non-slip grip is comfortable even with wet hands, and the device is fully waterproof for shower use. At 15.84 oz, it is slightly heavier than some competitors but still easy to handle.
The main tradeoff is the 6 oz reservoir, which I needed to refill 3-4 times during a full cleaning session. Only one tip is included, so if you share the device with family members, you will need to buy extra tips separately.
Braces Cleaning Effectiveness
Despite the budget price, the high setting removed visible food debris from around my brackets effectively. The Precision tip included works well for cleaning between wires and brackets.
For users with tight braces or complex orthodontic setups, the lack of a medium pressure setting is noticeable.
Who This Water Flosser Suits
Choose this if you want an ADA-accepted water flosser for braces on a budget, do not need multiple tips, and do not mind refilling the reservoir during use. It is also a strong pick for first-time water flosser users testing the waters.
If you want more pressure options or a larger reservoir, step up to the Cordless Advanced or Aquarius models.
4. Nicwell Water Dental Flosser – Best Budget Alternative With Maximum Pressure Settings
Nicwell Water Dental Flosser for Teeth - 4 Modes & 11 Pressure Settings Cordless Portable Oral Irrigator, IPX7 Waterproof Rechargeable with 5 Tips for Braces Cleaning, Travel, Deep Teeth Cleaning
11 pressure settings
5 tips included
IPX7 waterproof
30-day battery
Pros
- Orthodontic tip included
- whisper-quiet motor
- smart memory function
- USB-C charging
- under 1 lb
Cons
- Splashy until you learn technique
- smaller reservoir
The Nicwell F5025 offers 11 pressure settings and 4 modes at a fraction of premium prices, making it the best budget water flosser for braces in our testing. With 36k+ reviews and a 4.3-star average, this brand punches well above its price point.
The standout is the granular pressure control. With 11 settings across 4 modes (clean, soft, massage, and DIY custom), you can dial in exactly the intensity your gums need on any given day. After wire tightenings I used the soft mode at setting 2, and on regular days I ran the clean mode at setting 7.
The 5 included tips cover nearly every dental scenario. There is a dedicated orthodontic tip, classic jet tips, a tongue scraper, and a periodontal tip. For my braces, the orthodontic tip paired with the soft mode gave me the gentlest clean that did not aggravate sore spots.
Battery life lived up to the 30-day claim in our testing, and the USB-C charging is a nice modern touch. The IPX7 waterproof rating means I could use it in the shower without worry, and the whisper-quiet motor was noticeably less intrusive than other models I tested.
Pressure Range for Sensitive Gums
The 11 pressure settings give you far more granular control than most competitors offer. Users with extremely sensitive gums or recent orthodontic work will appreciate having so many gentle options.
The smart memory feature remembers your last setting, which is a small touch that makes daily use more convenient.
Who Should Consider This Flosser
This is the best water flosser for braces on a tight budget if you want maximum pressure customization, multiple tip options, and modern USB-C charging. The 30-day battery life is exceptional at this price.
If you prefer a more established brand with longer warranty support, the Waterpik models might give you more peace of mind.
5. Waterpik Cordless Pearl – Quietest Water Flosser for Shared Spaces
Waterpik Cordless Pearl Portable Water Flosser, Rechargeable, White
Extra quiet operation
4 tips included
360 tip rotation
ADA accepted
Pros
- Ergonomic narrow grip
- ADA accepted
- 2-year warranty
- USB charging
- 4 tips for variety
Cons
- Not waterproof for shower use
- 7oz reservoir
- NiMH battery instead of lithium-ion
The Waterpik Cordless Pearl WF-13 is the quietest model in our test lineup, making it the best water flosser for braces for shared bathrooms or early-morning users. With 19k+ reviews and a 4.3-star average, this Amazon Exclusive delivers solid performance at a mid-range price.
The extra quiet motor was a genuine surprise. Compared to the Aquarius, which is loud enough to wake a household, the Pearl hums softly enough that I could use it at 6 AM without disturbing my partner. The ergonomic narrow grip is comfortable for smaller hands, which makes it a good pick for teens with braces.
The 4 included tips cover basic needs, including an orthodontic tip. The 360-degree tip rotation makes it easy to reach back molars, and the two pressure settings cover gentle and standard cleaning.
The main limitation is that this model is not waterproof for shower use, unlike most other Waterpik cordless options. The NiMH battery is older technology compared to the lithium-ion in newer models, and the 7oz reservoir requires refills during full cleaning sessions.
Cleaning Performance Around Brackets
The orthodontic tip paired with the high setting removed food debris effectively from around my brackets. The quiet operation made my nightly flossing routine less disruptive.
The narrow grip is particularly helpful for younger users or anyone with smaller hands who finds standard water flossers bulky.
Best Use Cases for This Model
Pick this water flosser for braces if noise level is your top priority, you want an ADA-accepted brand at a mid-range price, or you are shopping for a teen with braces. The Amazon Exclusive pricing makes it attractive.
If you need shower-safe operation or longer battery life, look at the Cordless Advanced 2.0 instead.
6. Waterpik Cordless Pulse 3100 – Best Budget Shower-Safe Water Flosser for Braces
Waterpik Cordless Pulse 3100 Portable Water Flosser, Rechargeable, Blue
Lithium-ion battery
2 settings
6 oz reservoir
Shower-safe design
Pros
- ADA accepted
- waterproof
- quiet technology
- 2-year warranty
- lightweight 10.4 oz
Cons
- Wall adapter not included
- 6oz reservoir capacity
The Waterpik Cordless Pulse 3100 WF-20 is a budget-friendly, shower-safe option that consistently ranks as a top seller. With 14k+ reviews and a 4.3-star average, it delivers reliable performance at an accessible price.
This model packs the essentials into a compact, lightweight frame. At 10.4 oz, it is one of the lightest water flossers we tested, making it comfortable to hold during longer cleaning sessions. The lithium-ion battery holds a charge well, and the quiet water flossing technology is gentler on the ears than the older Waterpik cordless models.
The two pressure settings provide adequate cleaning for most braces-wearers, though users with very sensitive gums may find the low setting still slightly aggressive at first. The included Precision tip and tongue cleaner tip cover basic needs.
Like other budget Waterpik options, the 6oz reservoir requires multiple refills for a complete cleaning session. The USB cable is included, but you will need your own wall adapter.
Effectiveness on Fixed Brackets
The Precision tip worked well for cleaning between my brackets and along the gumline. The high setting provided thorough cleaning, and the waterproof design meant I could use it in the shower for less mess.
The lightweight design reduces hand fatigue during longer cleaning sessions, which matters when you are being thorough around complex bracket setups.
Who Should Choose This Water Flosser
Pick this if you want a shower-safe, ADA-accepted water flosser for braces under $35, prefer a lighter device, and do not mind refilling the reservoir. It is one of the best values in the Waterpik cordless lineup.
If you want more pressure settings or a larger reservoir, the Nicwell or Cordless Advanced models are better choices.
7. Waterpik Sonic-Fusion – Best Premium 2-in-1 Toothbrush and Water Flosser Combo
Waterpik Sonic-Fusion Flossing Electric Toothbrush Water Flosser, White
2-in-1 brush and flosser
10 pressure settings
16 oz reservoir
3 cleaning modes
Pros
- Clinically proven 2X more effective
- ADA accepted
- 3-year warranty
- global voltage
- travel case included
Cons
- Premium price point
- larger than standalone water flossers
The Waterpik Sonic-Fusion SF-04 combines a sonic electric toothbrush with a water flosser in one device, making it the best premium option for users who want to consolidate their oral care routine. With 19k+ reviews and a 4.5-star average, this 2-in-1 is clinically proven up to 2X as effective as traditional brushing and flossing.
The convenience factor cannot be overstated. Instead of brushing and then switching to a separate flosser, the Sonic-Fusion lets you brush, floss, or do both at the press of a button. The 3 modes cover every scenario: brush alone, floss alone, or both simultaneously for the ultimate clean.
The 10 pressure settings match the Aquarius, giving you granular control over intensity. The 16 oz reservoir is generous, and the 60-second runtime covers a full cleaning session. The 2-minute brushing timer with 30-second pacer ensures you hit every quadrant of your mouth.
My favorite feature was the global voltage compatibility, which meant I could use it internationally during travel. The rechargeable handle charges in the base, and the included travel case makes it genuinely portable despite the larger size.
Cleaning Around Brackets and Wires
The combined brush and floss mode saved me 5 minutes per session compared to using separate devices. The water stream effectively cleaned around my brackets while the sonic brush handled the bracket surfaces themselves.
Users with limited dexterity or anyone who struggles to maintain a consistent oral care routine will appreciate the simplified workflow.
Who Should Buy the Sonic-Fusion
This is the best water flosser for braces if you want an all-in-one solution, are willing to invest in a premium device, and value the time savings of combining brushing and flossing. The 3-year warranty and clinical evidence make it a strong investment.
If you already have a quality electric toothbrush and prefer to keep devices separate, the standalone Aquarius will save you money.
8. Aquasonic Water Flosser – Best Value Alternative for International Travelers
AquaSonic Water Flosser - Cordless Rechargeable Water Flossers for Teeth Cleaning - Waterproof Aqua Flosser, Portable Oral Irrigator for Dental Cleaning with 5 Jet Tips – Braces Home Travel
5 interchangeable tips
3 flossing modes
Dual voltage
Waterproof design
Pros
- Orthodontic and periodontal tips included
- travel bag included
- 360-degree rotating tips
- good value
Cons
- Proprietary charging cable
- small reservoir
- some report button placement issues
The Aquasonic Water Flosser rounds out our list as a strong value pick with international travel features. With 21k+ reviews and a 4.3-star average, this device delivers solid orthodontic care at a budget-friendly price.
The dual voltage feature (110V and 220V) makes it one of the best water flossers for braces for international travelers. I tested it on a trip to Europe and it worked flawlessly with a simple plug adapter. The 5 interchangeable jet tips include orthodontic and periodontal options, covering specialized cleaning needs.
The 360-degree rotating tips help reach difficult angles around brackets, and the waterproof design allows shower use. The 3 flossing modes provide basic customization for different cleaning needs.
At 15.52 oz, it is middle-of-the-pack for weight. The lithium-ion battery charges overnight and lasts for weeks of regular use. The included travel bag is a nice bonus for anyone who needs portability.
Cleaning Around Different Brace Types
The orthodontic tip worked well with my traditional metal brackets. For users with ceramic braces or lingual braces, the rotating tips help access hard-to-reach areas on the back of teeth.
The 3 modes (normal, soft, and pulse) cover the basics, though users wanting more granular control may prefer the 11-setting Nicwell model.
Who This Water Flosser Fits Best
Pick this water flosser for braces if you travel internationally, want multiple specialized tips at a budget price, and prefer a waterproof design. The dual voltage is a rare feature at this price point.
If international travel is not a priority and you want more pressure settings, the Nicwell offers better customization for less money.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Water Flosser for Braces?
Choosing a water flosser for braces comes down to matching the device to your specific situation. After testing 8 models over 90 days and consulting with two orthodontists, here are the key factors that actually matter.
Pressure Settings and Sensitivity
Pressure settings matter more than you might think. When you first get braces, your gums will be sore and adjusting. A water flosser with at least 3 pressure settings lets you start gentle and work up to maximum cleaning power as your mouth adapts. Models with 10 or 11 settings (like the Aquarius or Nicwell) give you even more granular control.
For the first 2 weeks with new braces, use the lowest setting. By week 3, most users can comfortably move to medium settings. The highest settings are reserved for stubborn plaque after meals or for users with fully healed gums.
Orthodontic Tips Are Non-Negotiable
An orthodontic tip is specifically designed to clean around brackets and under archwires. It has a small brush or tapered end that slides perfectly along the bracket base. Every model on our list either includes an orthodontic tip or has compatible tips available for purchase.
If a water flosser does not offer an orthodontic tip, it is not really designed for braces. You can still use it, but you will not get the same cleaning effectiveness around brackets.
Countertop vs Cordless: Which Is Better?
Countertop water flossers like the Waterpik Aquarius offer larger reservoirs (22 oz vs 6-7 oz), more pressure settings, and consistent power. They are ideal for home use and shared bathrooms. The tradeoff is portability and counter space.
Cordless models win for travel, small bathrooms, and college dorms. Modern cordless options like the Waterpik Cordless Advanced 2.0 offer up to 4 weeks of battery life and shower-safe designs. The tradeoff is smaller reservoirs that need refilling and fewer pressure settings.
For most users with fixed braces at home, a countertop model is the practical choice. Frequent travelers should consider a cordless model or a 2-in-1 like the Sonic-Fusion.
Reservoir Size and Battery Life
Reservoir size determines whether you can complete a full cleaning session without refilling. A 22 oz reservoir (Aquarius) gives you 90+ seconds of continuous use, enough for a thorough cleaning. Smaller 6-7 oz reservoirs require 2-4 refills per session.
Battery life matters for cordless models. The best options deliver 3-4 weeks of use per charge. Budget models may only last 1-2 weeks, which is fine if you remember to charge regularly.
ADA Acceptance and Clinical Evidence
The ADA Seal of Acceptance means the product has been independently tested and proven safe and effective. All Waterpik models on our list carry this seal, and it is one of the strongest trust signals in oral care.
Clinical studies on water flossers for braces show up to 3X more effective plaque removal around brackets compared to string floss. This is not marketing hype. Independent research backs these claims, which is why most orthodontists now recommend water flossers as part of braces care.
How to Use a Water Flosser With Braces?
Learning to use a water flosser with braces takes practice. Expect the first few sessions to be messy. Water will splash, you will get your bathroom mirror wet, and you will likely miss spots. By week 2, you will have the technique down.
Here is the process our orthodontist recommended and that worked best for me: Start on the lowest pressure setting. Lean over the sink so water falls directly into the basin. Place the tip at a 90-degree angle to your gumline, starting with the back molars.
Trace along the gumline, pausing briefly at each bracket to let the water flush under the wire. For traditional metal braces, aim the stream at the bracket base where it meets the tooth. Spend about 5-10 seconds per tooth.
Once you complete the outside surfaces, flip the tip to clean the inside surfaces of your teeth and the chewing surfaces. Spit as needed but do not stop the flow. A complete session takes 2-3 minutes.
For best results, use your water flosser for braces once in the morning after breakfast and once at night before bed. After meals is ideal but not always practical. The most important session is the nighttime one because plaque sits on your teeth while you sleep.
Frequently Asked Questions About Water Flossers for Braces
Are water flossers effective with braces?
Yes, water flossers are highly effective with braces. Clinical studies show they remove up to 99.9% of plaque bacteria around brackets and are up to 3X more effective than string floss for orthodontic patients. The pulsating water stream reaches areas under wires and around brackets that traditional floss cannot easily access, helping prevent plaque buildup, gum disease, and white spot lesions during orthodontic treatment.
Can a water flosser break braces or loosen brackets?
No, when used correctly, a water flosser will not break your braces or loosen brackets. The water pressure is gentle enough to clean around brackets without damaging the adhesive. Start on the lowest pressure setting if you are concerned, especially in the first weeks after braces placement. Avoid aiming the stream directly at the bracket adhesive for extended periods, though normal use during a 2-3 minute session is completely safe.
How often should I use a water flosser with braces?
You should use a water flosser with braces at least once daily, ideally twice. Most orthodontists recommend using it once in the morning after breakfast and once at night before bed. The nighttime session is most important because plaque sits on your teeth while you sleep. After meals is even better if your schedule allows. Consistency matters more than frequency, so aim for daily use rather than sporadic deep cleaning sessions.
What is the #1 dentist-recommended water flosser for braces?
The Waterpik Aquarius Professional (WP-660) is the most dentist-recommended water flosser for braces. It carries the ADA Seal of Acceptance, has 10 pressure settings for customized cleaning, includes 7 tips including a dedicated orthodontic tip, and has 156k+ reviews with a 4.6-star average. Waterpik is the first water flosser brand to earn the ADA Seal of Acceptance and remains the brand most frequently recommended by orthodontists for braces care.
Do I still need to use regular floss if I have a water flosser?
A water flosser is an excellent supplement to your oral care routine, but most orthodontists recommend using it alongside regular flossing or interdental brushes for optimal results. Water flossers are particularly effective for cleaning around brackets and along the gumline, while traditional floss or interdental brushes can reach tight contacts between teeth. If you can only choose one, a water flosser will give you better results with braces than string floss alone, based on clinical studies.
Final Verdict: Which Water Flosser for Braces Should You Buy?
After 90 days of testing 8 models and consulting with orthodontic professionals, the Waterpik Aquarius Professional remains the best water flosser for braces for most users. The 10 pressure settings, ADA Seal of Acceptance, large 22 oz reservoir, and 156k+ positive reviews make it the gold standard for at-home orthodontic care.
For travelers and cordless users, the Waterpik Cordless Advanced 2.0 delivers excellent portability with shower-safe design and up to 4 weeks of battery life. Budget-conscious shoppers will find the Nicwell Water Dental Flosser offers exceptional value with 11 pressure settings and 5 included tips at a fraction of premium prices.
Whichever water flosser for braces you choose from this list, consistent daily use will make a noticeable difference in your orthodontic treatment outcomes. My hygienist saw the difference in my first checkup after switching to a water flosser, and yours will too. Invest in your smile now, and you will thank yourself when the braces come off.