Did it ever occur to you that sharing a water flosser is a good idea? The thought may pop up, especially when there is no space or you wish to save a bit of money. But hold on, you need to know that sharing a water flosser is not as simple as you may think. There is a risk of contracting germs or infections, and it is essential to remember that you are taking a risk. Oral health matters, and when it comes to your mouth, cleanliness should take precedence.
In this article, we'll debunk the myths of sharing a water flosser, weigh the pros and cons, and provide useful tips so that if you do share one, you're sharing it the best way possible.
By the end of this article, you'll have everything you need to make a smart decision, including alternatives and how to keep clean. Let's get to the facts and find out what you need to know before sharing your water flosser.
The Hygiene Risks of Sharing a Water Flosser
It may be tempting to share a water flosser, but it has some serious hygiene problems. The most serious of these is cross-contamination. The nozzle of a water flosser comes directly into contact with the mouth, where it can pass on bacteria, viruses, and other microbes. The microbes can be directly passed from mouth to mouth if the flosser is not sterilised between uses, infecting people with gum disease, cold sores, or even more serious diseases.
Although water flossers are useful in interdental cleaning, they are not exempt from bacterial proliferation. Bacteria will grow on the nozzle and water reservoir of the flosser if not properly cleaned, acting as a hotbed for nasty germs. Using the same tip increases the likelihood of transferring nasty bacteria from mouth to mouth, especially if the user has an existing oral infection or even the common cold.
Moreover, water flossers should be cleaned frequently so that they become hygienic. If not properly maintained, you can unknowingly deposit disease-causing bacteria into your mouth, which reduces any advantage the device might have. For those with compromised immune systems, a diseased mouth, or existing oral health problems, these dangers become even more severe.
If you want to know more about how to clean a water flosser, here's a step-by-step guide for you.
How to Share a Water Flosser Properly?
If you have to share a water flosser, there are measures you can take to do this safely to reduce the risk of cross-infection of germs. Most importantly, ensure that everyone uses their own tip or nozzle. Some water flossers have interchangeable tips, and multiple users can maintain their hygiene while sharing.
The nozzle has to be cleaned and disinfected after every use with warm water and a soft disinfectant in order to eliminate any germs that have been transferred in use.
Also, clean the water reservoir and the rest of the flosser regularly to avoid the accumulation of bacteria. Follow the manufacturer's manual guidelines on cleaning since some flossers have specific steps to ensure the flosser is properly sanitised. In storing the flosser, also ensure you store it in a clean, dry place, free of moisture, to avoid the growth of mould and bacteria.
If you can, choose an antimicrobial or easy-to-clean flosser. This will help prevent cross-contamination and enable the device to remain in good condition for all to use. Sharing a water flosser is not best, but by having precautions in place, you can at least make the experience safe for all.
Sharing a Water Flosser: Alternatives
Rather than just sharing a water flosser, it is better to have separate devices for everyone. This is the ideal option to eliminate any hygienic risks altogether. Tiny and small in size, the majority of water flossers are not only affordable but also easy to store. Separate water flossers guarantee everyone has a personal hygiene practice, eliminating the risk of transmission of any bacteria or infection.
There are also some models of water flossers like the Oclean AirPump A10 Water Flosser that come with multiple tips that allow for individual use without the need for sharing. This is a great choice in case of space or budget constraint, as the unit can be employed by multiple individuals without compromising on hygiene.
Having a personal water flosser also permits you to customise your oral care routine to suit your requirements, perhaps having a preferred pressure setting or the benefit of a travel unit for use away from home.
The cost of buying a second flosser is nothing compared to the risk to your health of sharing one.
What to Look for in a Water Flosser?
When selecting a water flosser, there are a couple of things to consider. First, select one that has adjustable water pressure. This way, you will have the ability to tailor the flosser to your own needs, whether your gums are sensitive, you have braces, or you simply prefer a more gentle clean. Another feature is nozzle design and how easily it will be able to get into all the crevices of your mouth.
A multi-tip flosser is also something you'll need if you're sharing it with other individuals. There are designs that have an array of tips that are appropriate for various functions, such as between the braces, deep between the teeth, or offering a gentler clean between sensitive spaces.
Portability is also worth considering. If you are on the road a lot, a smaller, portable flosser can be a valuable tool to maintain your oral health routine while travelling. Finally, an easy cleaning design is needed so that bacteria and debris don't build up over time and render the flosser and your oral health ineffective.
The Bottom Line
Although you can share a water flosser safely, it's always most hygienic to use your own. Sharing a flosser does involve bacterial transfer risks, but if you sanitise it properly, you can render it safe.
For the peace of your mind and for your overall long-term oral health, we recommend you purchase a personal water flosser. Oclean AirPump A10 Water Flosser is a wonderful option, with excellent cleaning performance, personal use multiple tips, and easy maintenance. It's lightweight, portable, and designed with your personal oral care in mind. Shop here and enjoy a healthy, clean mouth every day.
