How To Use A Water Flosser | Sherry Kazerooni, DDS, LVIF

General Dentistry |5 min read How to Use a Water Flosser [and Choose the Right Model!] by The Team at Sherry Kazerooni, DDS, LVIF published April 17, 2020Last updated August 12, 2025

“Water flossers provide a convenient, mess-free alternative to string floss. This content explains how to choose the right model—from countertop units that offer higher pressure and capacity to portable cordless options and all-in-one systems combining a water flosser with an electric toothbrush. It also covers simple setup steps and demonstrates proper technique to gently clean along the gumline, protecting sensitive tissue while effectively removing plaque.” – Dr. Sherry Kazerooni, Dental experience: 15+ years.

Flossing is an essential part of your daily oral health routine. But string floss is awkward, messy, and tough to do correctly.

Luckily, there’s another way!

Water flossers are an effective alternative to string floss.

If you’re considering investing in one, you may be wondering how to use a water flosser.

Watch this short video of our dentist in McLean, VA, Dr. Sherry Kazerooni, showing you exactly how to use a water flosser, PLUS some quick tips for choosing the right one.

Did you watch the video?

Great! Let’s review what Dr. Kazerooni covered.

Choose the right type of water flosser for your needs

There are three different types of water flossers available from the Waterpik® brand…Opens in a new window to Waterpik Water Flosser main page…:

• Countertop: This is the larger version that Dr. Kazerooni highly recommends. Most patients prefer it because it is more effective, with higher water pressure, a larger reservoir capacity, and improved overall experience.
• Cordless: This is the smaller model, optimized for portability. Its small footprint is ideal for travel or in small spaces with limited countertop area. However, the tradeoff is that it is less powerful and effective. Generally, Dr. Kazerooni only recommends this option if portability is a necessity, or if limited space prevents you from using the countertop version. Even though it isn’t as powerful, it’s better than nothing at all.
• Complete care: This option combines a countertop water flosser with an electric toothbrush in one convenient device. It is an excellent option if you’re looking for a comprehensive system, with the same effectiveness as the stand-alone countertop model.

Setting up your new water flosser

Once you have chosen your water flosser model, it’s time for some simple setup:

1. Fill the tank with water and place firmly onto the base. Warm water is preferred, as it can help with sensitivity.
2. Click the tip into the handle.
3. If this is your first time, you’ll need to do a quick rinse of the system. Set the pressure control dial to high, point the tip into the sink, and turn on until water flows for a few seconds. Then turn it off.

You’re now ready to go!

How to use a water flosser

1. Starting with the lowest pressure setting, lean over the sink and place the tip into your mouth.
2. Before you start the unit, make sure the tip is pointed directly parallel to your teeth. By keeping the tip parallel, you protect the sensitive gum tissue as you clean. Dr. Kazerooni has a great demo of this in the video above if you need to review it!
3. While leaning over the sink, turn the unit on and let the water flow out your mouth.
4. While aiming at the gumline, run the tip slowly and gently across your teeth. Clean the top and bottom jaw thoroughly.
5. When finished, turn the unit off. Use the eject button to remove the tip.

That’s all there is to it!

Once you’ve figured out how to use a water flosser, you’ll be using it like a pro in no time.

It’s an incredibly effective (and dare we say fun?) way to floss, no string required!

Looking for a dentist in McLean, VA?

Dr. Kazerooni was voted a top dentist in her community, offering general, restorative, and cosmetic dentistry, as well as many other services.

She’s well-loved for her detailed, attentive approach and top-quality dentistry. Her genuine care for the well-being of her patients truly sets her apart.

Our office proudly serves McLean, VA and surrounding areas in Tysons Corner, Reston, Vienna, Oakton, Falls Church, Great Falls, Arlington, and the Metropolitan DC area.

Contact us today to schedule an appointment:

• Call us today: (703) 827-0644
• Email us today: [email protected]
• Send us a message

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