Oral hygiene is the fundamental basis for ensuring optimal oral health.
For this reason, there are different elements that serve as a complement to the conventional toothbrush.
One of them is the dental irrigator, especially indicated for people who have fixed orthodontics or who have had dental implants placed.
In this article we would like to explain what an irrigator is, what its advantages are and what guidelines to follow to choose the best one for you.
What is a dental irrigator?
The oral irrigator is an oral cleaning instrument that uses a pressurized water system.
It consists of the direct application of a pulsating jet of water that effectively eliminates bacteria deposited on the teeth.
It is very useful for cleaning areas that are difficult for the manual toothbrush to reach, such as periodontal pockets and the edge of the gums.
Technique for using the irrigator
How to use the oral irrigator?
This pressure tooth cleaner should be used after daily brushing, provided that there is an interval of at least 2 hours between each use.
In order not to damage the gums, it is advisable not to use the irrigator for more than 5 minutes.
The dental irrigator consists of 3 parts:
Water tank
Pump
Cannula or nozzle to apply the water pressure in the desired area.
First of all, it is necessary to fill the tank with tap water, as it does not need to be mineral or bottled water.
It is possible to include a mouthwash in the irrigator tank, although we recommend that you always consult a trusted dentist beforehand.
However, there are certain practices that can have serious consequences for your teeth and gums, so you should avoid them.
We are referring to the use of abrasive compounds for the oral cavity: hydrogen peroxide, bicarbonate, activated charcoal, rinses with coconut oil (‘oil pulling’)…
The dental irrigator is highly recommended to ensure oral hygiene in people with fixed orthodontics or dental implants.
Each irrigator includes different types of nozzles depending on which area of the mouth we want to clean.
Before applying it, the water pressure must be regulated, always pointing it towards the sink.
To use the pressure mouth cleaner properly, place the nozzle in the direction of the gum line and tilt it approximately 90 degrees.
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Position your body towards the sink and, keeping your mouth ajar, activate the water jet.
We recommend you to start from the last molars and move along the gum line, emphasizing the interdental area -between tooth and tooth-.
Pressure jet
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DENTAL IRRIGATOR
Irrigator considerations
The use of the irrigator is very simple and has numerous benefits for oral health.
However, there are some things to keep in mind:
To avoid discomfort, regulate the pressure before you start brushing.
Do not apply the jet on sores or wounds.
Clean the irrigator nozzle every time you use it, store it properly and empty the reservoir.
Before adding mouthwash to the water tank, make sure that your model allows its use, otherwise it may clog. The exact amount of rinse you can use is indicated in the user manual.
Who can use the irrigator?
The irrigator can be used by anyone who is aware of the importance of maintaining rigorous dental hygiene routines.
But there are specific cases in which its use is especially recommended:
People who have started fixed orthodontic treatment: lingual, metal or sapphire brackets.
Cleaning with these appliances is more complicated, so the irrigator helps to remove food debris.
For patients with dental implants or fixed prostheses, the irrigator is the perfect complement to interproximal brushes.
People suffering from periodontal diseases: gingivitis or periodontitis.
Combine several elements
Don’t just use your toothbrush, include in your hygiene the dental irrigator, mouthwash or dental floss.
Which is the best dental irrigator for me?
There is a wide variety of irrigator brands on the market, Waterpik being the best known.
The Waterpik oral irrigator is as effective as any other, so you can choose the model that best suits your dental hygiene needs and your price preferences.
Tabletop irrigator
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TYPES OF ORAL IRRIGATORS
In general, there are 3 types of irrigators:
Tabletop irrigator
They work like an electric toothbrush, as they need to be charged, and they are the ones that include a greater variety of cannulas.
In fact, there is the electric toothbrush with irrigator.
Portable dental irrigator
They are more convenient as they work with a battery charge and can be used as a travel dental irrigator.
However, hygienists advise that it should be used in specific cases, such as in the office.
This is because the jet of the cordless Waterpik does not have as much pressure as the other models.
Irrigator without motor
They are connected directly to the sink faucet.
In addition, there are different heads that adapt to the requirements of each person.
We can distinguish between those most appropriate for orthodontics, for cleaning implants or dental prostheses, as well as the lingual cannula or the standard mouthpiece.
MAKE AN APPOINTMENT WITH OUR DENTAL HYGIENISTS
Benefits of the irrigator for the mouth
The dental irrigator has numerous positive effects on oral hygiene, provided it is combined with cleaning techniques using an electric or manual toothbrush.
It offers a maximum sensation of cleanliness and freshness, avoiding bad breath.
Removes dental plaque from hard-to-reach areas, improving gum health and reducing the risk of bleeding.
Facilitates access to periodontal pockets for patients suffering from periodontitis.
Allows cleaning crowns, implants, dentures and fixed orthodontic appliances with less effort.
Prevents the formation and accumulation of tartar and prevents the formation of caries.
If you are thinking of buying a dental irrigator but do not know which one can provide you with the greatest advantages, consult your trusted dentist.
Our team of dental hygienists at DrAW Dental Clinic will be able to give you daily hygiene guidelines to keep your teeth and gums healthy.
You can contact us through our web form or by calling +1 619 372 5409 🇺🇸 +52 664 590 8321 🇲🇽 .
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