Waterpik
A Waterpik, or water flosser, is a dental device that directs a stream of water towards the teeth. This helps remove food particles and plaque buildup by reaching the spaces between the teeth. Waterpiks are used to remove food particles that may be left behind even after brushing your teeth.
Taking care of your gums is essential for your health. The bacteria from gum disease can enter your bloodstream and cause illness. While it is important to brush your teeth twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, not all food particles, plaque, or bacteria present between your teeth can be removed by simply using a regular toothbrush. Therefore, it is recommended to try interdental cleaning with a Waterpik water flosser to clean your teeth and gums effectively.
When To Use a Waterpik?
You may be advised to use a Waterpik if you:
Wear braces
Have non-removable bridgework
Have dental crowns
Have dental implants
Benefits of a Waterpik
Advantages of using Waterpiks or flossers are:
- Ability to reach areas that traditional floss is unable to get to
- Removal of bacteria and debris along the gum line
- Reduced risk of irritation and bleeding compared to traditional floss
- Suitable for people with sensitive gums
- Easy to use and maneuver
- Ideal for people wearing orthodontic appliances or dental implants
- Reduced risk of gingivitis and gum disease
- Enhanced gum tissue stimulation
Types of Water Flossers
Some types of water flossers include:
Countertop water flossers
These come in various sizes and have different features. They have the most pressure settings, the largest water reservoirs, and additional features. Smaller countertop models combine a good mix of features in an even more compact design.
Cordless water flossers
The traditional cordless type is a compact, handheld version with a smaller water reservoir and slightly reduced power compared to plug-in countertop versions.
Portable water flossers
Cordless countertop water flossers offer the same performance as a full-size model while bringing you the convenience and flexibility of a cordless unit. These units come with the same pressure settings and water capacity that are found in traditional countertop models, but without needing to be connected to power while in operation.
How to Use a Waterpik?
Steps to use a Waterpik for optimal oral hygiene:
- Fill the reservoir with lukewarm water
- Adjust the pressure settings
- Start with low pressure settings
- Hold the tip at a 90-degree angle to the gums
- Guide it along the gumline and in between the teeth
- Rinse the mouth and clean the device
In order to achieve the best results, you should start by cleaning your teeth from the back and slowly moving towards the front. Do not stop until both the inside and outside surfaces of your upper and lower teeth are cleaned. This helps ensure a thorough cleaning of your entire oral cavity. Use a Waterpik at least once a day to remove plaque buildup over the course of a day on the gumline.
Replacing Components of a Waterpik
For optimal oral health, regularly change your Waterpik and its tips. Tips have to be changed every 3 months, whereas the flosser unit itself can last anywhere between 12 and 24 months, depending on how frequently they are used and other factors.
Common Problems with a Waterpik
The cons of using a Waterpik include:
- It is possible that not all of the plaque will be removed
- It is more expensive compared to the traditional string floss
- It may be messy to use
Waterpiks might not entirely remove the plaque from your teeth’s surfaces. So, it might be a good idea to use regular string floss first to scrape off and loosen some of the plaque before going in with a Waterpik to easily rinse away any leftover plaque.
For a fresh and deep-clean feeling, clean between your teeth daily with a Waterpik, in addition to brushing twice a day. Regular dental checkups are also important for monitoring your oral health. If you have any questions about Waterpiks, reach out to the professionals at Dr. Motiwala.
