Oral irrigator

The oral irrigator is in oral hygiene an instrument can be removed from between the teeth with the food particles and plaque by means of a water jet, without being able to replace the toothbrush.

Principle

Most irrigators work with a single jet of water can be rinsed out between the teeth with the unwanted material. Compared to floss the irrigator comfortable in even the close-set teeth, or otherwise hard to reach spaces between the teeth on.

There are also devices on the market, which targeted the gums can be massaged with sophisticated massage heads. It can also be incorporated into the gum pockets with an inserted as an attachment subgingival nozzle a mouthrinse.

History

The irrigator was invented in 1962 by engineer John Mattingly and dentist Gerald Moyer its. The invention has been marketed by the company founded by the inventor of Aqua Tec. In 1967 it was acquired by Teledyne; 1975, named the company Teledyne Teledyne Waterpik into. Today the company is waterpik market leader in the U.S.; the brand waterpik and the common form water pick are in American literature synonymously with the English equivalent of the term oral irrigator.

Criticism

By dentists the oral irrigator is classified as a wellness product, since it can not replace the medically useful cleaning with toothbrush and dental floss. Only a possible improvement of the circulation in the gums by massaging action is possible. This is offset by the risk that improper use ( " flushing out the gear bags " ) leftovers are flushed into the periodontal pockets and cause damage there teeth and gums. Because of this risk, the majority of dentists does not recommend the use of oral irrigators.

Recent studies have shown that the oral irrigator of the floss is superior for the removal of plaque.

Further use

• For some irrigators essays, with which the device can be used in cold for nasal irrigation exist.
• Similarly, there is for some irrigators attachments for cleaning the tongue.