Today, we’re talking about the water flosser, also known as interdental cleaner, interdental irrigator, or water jet. The first water-shooting device for cleaning between teeth was created in the early 1960’s by Colorado dentist Dr. Gerald Moyer and John Mattingly, a hydraulics engineer. The gadget is now known by the brand name Waterpik, though many people use the term generically. Since its creation, numerous other companies have entered the market with similar products. (Note: Decatur Smiles does not necessarily endorse any particular brand.)
A water irrigation instrument oscillates a stream of water through a small, targeted tube to shoot out particles of food and plaque from around and between teeth. To use it, you put the tube into your mouth, turn it on, and then lean over the sink with your mouth slightly open to let the water dribble out as you guide the stream of shooting water around the gumline, halting briefly at each gap between adjoining teeth.
There have been over 65 studies that have validated the safety and effectiveness of water flossing for calculus reduction, plaque biofilm removal, bleeding reduction, inflammation reduction, and gingivitis treatment.
Should I Use a Water Flosser?
If you don’t floss at all, absolutely. If you have gum disease, maybe. It may also help you keep your teeth and gums healthy if you have dental bridgework.
First, meet with Dr. Teichmiller to obtain an oral care treatment plan that factors in your tooth and gum health, physical dexterity, and lifestyle. The following factors may influence whether or not doctor Teichmiller counsels you to use an interdental irrigation device.
Braces or other orthodontic appliances
A physical disability that reduces ability to brush and/or floss
Periodontal disease
Gums that bleed when flossing
Bleeding around dental implants when flossing
Aversion to flossing
Sensitive teeth
The comprehensive team at Decatur Smiles would love to help you learn the most appropriate methods for keeping your gums pink and healthy and firmly attached to cavity-free teeth. To schedule an appointment, call 256-350-5820.
Sources:
Jacquelyn L. Fried, RDH, MS, “Interdental Cleansing,” The American Dental Hygienist Association, https://www.adha.org/resources-docs/7123_Waterpik_Irrigation.pdf, accessed March 10, 2017
Carol A. Jahn, RDH, MS, “The Water Flosser: Your Tool For Optimal Oral Health,” https://www.waterpik.com/oral-health/pro/education/pdf/Waterpik_WaterFlosser_ContinuingEducation.pdf, accessed March 10, 2017
“Water Flossing,” MouthHealthy (ADA), http://www.mouthhealthy.org/en/az-topics/w/water-flossers, accessed March 10, 2017
Contact Decatur Smiles: 256-350-5820
Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):
1316 Somerville Rd SE Ste 2
Decatur, Alabama
35601
