Oral irrigator, it's a term that pops up often if you have dental implants, but what does it mean? When it comes to dental tools, an oral irrigator, or water jet, is more interesting than most. The idea is to use water pressure to knock the debris from between teeth and stimulate the gums at the same time. Learn more about how an oral irrigator operates and why this tool improves oral health.
What is an Oral Irrigator?
Denise Parker, RDH, a dental hygienist in California and contributor to RDH magazine, calls home irrigation an effective way to reduce the severity of periodontal disease, a condition that causes the gums to erode. An oral irrigator uses a stream of water to dislodge plague and food from the teeth. The irrigator cleans places that are difficult to get to with traditional methods such as brushing.
How Do You Use an Oral Irrigator?
Each product operates differently, but once set up, use of the tool is similar.
- Turn the jet on and aim the flow at a right angle to your teeth.
- Start at the back teeth, taking care to clean along the gum line and between teeth.
- Pay special attention to dental work such as braces or implants.
Most machines only work with water, so avoid putting other solutions in the reservoir like mouthwash. Make sure to follow the maintenance instructions that come with the unit you purchase, too. This will keep the nozzle tip and tank free from bacteria and add to the shelf line of the machine.
How Effective are Oral Irrigators?
A 2010 report published in the Journal of Dental Hygiene states that using an oral irrigator is a practical way to improve oral health. The report author studied clinical trials of water jet products spanning over 40 years and found a body of evidence to support its use to prevent:
- Plaque buildup
- Periodontal pathogens
- Gingivitis
- Bleeding gums
- Gum inflammation
Bacteria in the mouth secrete lactic acid, a chemical that eats away at tooth enamel, and endotoxin, a gum irritant. An oral irrigator functions like a hose that washes away these damaging elements.
Dental implants rely on support tissue to maintain a prosthetic tooth. Without advanced oral hygiene techniques like using an oral irrigator, the gums continue to recede and the implant fails.
Does Using an Oral Irrigator Replace Flossing?
The Mayo Clinic points out that a dental water jet is not a replacement for regular flossing. The dental community considers flossing a better way to remove buildup between teeth. It also is the best way to scrape plaque off the sides of the teeth. The irrigator rinses away the material that flossing dislodges.
What Should You Look For in an Oral Irrigator?
There are three things to consider when shopping for an oral irrigator. First, look at the water source. A tankless unit connects to the facet or showerhead. This is a practical solution if space is limited in the bathroom. A self-contained model has a water reservoir that you fill prior to use but requires more storage space.
The second element is the power source; some products plug into a standard electrical socket while others are cordless. The cordless models work via rechargeable or disposable batteries. This is a personal choice. If the cord bothers you or if you travel often, the cordless model is ideal.
Once you decide on the water and power options, consider the functions available on each unit. Some products offer variable speeds and others come with multiple tips for family use.
Finding the right device depends on many factors. Ask your dentist for more info on finding an oral irrigator the fits your dental needs.
