Today, we’re highlighting 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 inception, many other companies have entered the market with similar products. (Note: Stewart and Hull Aesthetic and General Dentistry does not necessarily endorse any particular brand.)
A water irrigation device oscillates a stream of water through a small, targeted tube to shoot out bits 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 maneuver the stream of shooting water around the gumline, pausing momentarily at each gap between neighboring teeth.
There have been over 65 studies that have confirmed 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?
First, speak with us to receive an oral care treatment plan that factors in your tooth and gum health, physical dexterity, and lifestyle. The following circumstances may affect whether or not Drs. Stewart and Dr. Hull counsel you to use an interdental irrigation device.
Braces or other orthodontic appliances
A physical restriction that diminishes ability to brush and/or floss
Periodontitis
Gums that bleed when flossing
Bleeding around dental implants when flossing
Aversion to flossing
Sensitive teeth
The friendly and thorough team at Stewart and Hull Aesthetic and General Dentistry would love to help you learn the best suited processes for keeping your gums pink, healthy and firmly attached to cavity-free teeth. To schedule an appointment, call 616-784-2377.
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), https://www.mouthhealthy.org/en/az-topics/w/water-flossers, accessed March 10, 2017
Contact Stewart and Hull Aesthetic and General Dentistry: 616-784-2377
Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):
769 York Creek Dr NW
Comstock Park, Michigan
49321
