Today, we’re discussing the water flosser, also known as interdental cleaner, interdental irrigator, or water jet. The first water-shooting device for cleaning between teeth was invented in the early 1960’s by Colorado dentist Dr. Gerald Moyer and John Mattingly, a hydraulics engineer. The instrument is now known by the brand name Waterpik, though many people use the term generically. Since its creation, several other companies have entered the market with similar products. (Note: Town and Country Cosmetic Dentistry and Implant Center 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 place 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 move the stream of shooting water around the gumline, halting briefly at each gap between adjacent teeth.
There have been over 65 studies that have validated the safety and efficacy 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 gingivitis, perhaps. It may also help you keep your teeth and gums healthy if you have braces.
First, you’ll work with Dr. Buchheit to come up with a treatment plan that factors in your tooth and gum health, physical dexterity, and lifestyle. The following conditions may impact whether or not Dr. Buchheit recommends that you use an interdental irrigation device:
Braces or other orthodontic appliances
A physical disability that makes it difficult or tiring to brush and floss.
Gum disease
Gums that bleed when flossing
Bleeding around dental implants when flossing
Aversion to flossing
Sensitive teeth
The friendly team at Town and Country Cosmetic Dentistry and Implant Center would love to help you learn the best-suited techniques for keeping your gums pink and healthy and firmly attached to cavity-free teeth. To schedule an appointment, call 314-576-0088.
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 Town and Country Cosmetic Dentistry and Implant Center:
314-576-0088
Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):
14377 Woodlake Dr Ste 205
Chesterfield, Missouri
63017
