On this page
After mentioning it in my dental routine, I’ve now tried the Xiaomi Mijia water flosser. My teeth feel cleaner afterwards, and I like using it. That’s the short version.
A water flosser sends a pulsing stream of water between teeth and along the gum line. Waterpik is a brand name, not the name of every water flosser; this one is Xiaomi’s.
Mine cost roughly €38, compared with about €60 for an Oral-B option I was considering at the time. Those are the prices in my old notes, not current offers.
What came in the box
- The flosser and a USB-C-to-USB-A charging cable.
- Four tips, intended for regular cleaning, more targeted cleaning, tongue cleaning, and braces.
- A Chinese-language manual. I couldn’t read it. Looking up instructions for the exact model is a better idea than guessing how the specialist tips work.
It’s relatively compact, which is useful for travelling.
How I use it
I use the regular tip. My unit has four pressure/pulse settings, and I’ve been happy with the normal setting rather than the most aggressive one.
For a basic session, use lukewarm water, lean over the sink, put the tip in your mouth before switching it on, and keep your lips partly closed so water can drain out. Start gently. Guide the tip along the gum line, pausing between teeth, following the device instructions rather than blasting sensitive areas at maximum pressure.
My original routine was one tank of water, another with a splash of tea tree mouthwash, then plain water to flush it out. I wouldn’t suggest copying that mixture without checking the manufacturer’s instructions: not every liquid is suitable for every device, and rinsing afterwards doesn’t make an unsuitable additive safe.
Worth it for me
I like the clean feeling and the size. That doesn’t establish it’s better than every other way of cleaning between teeth. A dentist or hygienist can help work out whether floss, interdental brushes, a water flosser, or a combination suits your mouth.
If you want to look at the one I bought, here’s the AliExpress affiliate link from the original article. It may support the blog. Check the current listing and model details before ordering.
Archive note: restored from my 2023 notes. The publication date is approximate, and products and routines reflect that period.