Oral irrigator: what it is, how it works, and which to choose

What is an oral irrigator?

An oral irrigator (or water flosser) is a device that uses a pressurized stream of water to remove food particles, plaque, and bacteria from hard-to-reach areas in the mouth.

Its primary role is to enhance oral hygiene, but it’s important to note that it does not replace a toothbrush, toothpaste, or dental floss.

The oral irrigator is a valuable addition to your routine, allowing for more thorough cleaning and helping to reduce the risk of gum problems.

It’s especially beneficial for people with fixed orthodontic appliances, dental implants, or prosthetic restorations, where traditional cleaning methods may be more difficult.

Oral irrigators typically come with various tips that let you adjust the pressure and type of water stream to suit your personal needs, making them a versatile tool for maintaining oral health.

Many of our patients who started using an oral irrigator based on our recommendation say it provides a lasting feeling of freshness and cleanliness that’s hard to achieve with brushing alone.

Benefits of using an oral irrigator

Using an oral irrigator offers numerous advantages, including the removal of bacterial plaque, a reduced risk of tooth decay, and improved breath freshness.

While it's especially helpful for people with braces, implants, dental crowns, or bridges, we recommend oral irrigator to anyone looking to improve their oral hygiene and protect their dental health.

However, it’s important to note that individuals with gingivitis or periodontitis should not use an oral irrigator without first consulting their dentist.

Incorrect use of an oral irrigator may worsen inflammation and irritate the gums, so it’s essential to follow professional guidance when incorporating it into your routine.

An oral irrigator should be seen as a powerful addition - not a replacement - for traditional oral hygiene methods.

It serves as the final step in your daily oral care routine, following toothbrushing and flossing, helping to keep your teeth and gums healthy and clean.

How deep can an oral irrigator clean below the gumline?

A toothbrush typically cleans about 1 mm below the gumline - and with proper technique, such as the Bass method (angled brushing at 45°), it may reach up to 2 mm at best.

Dental floss, when used correctly, can reach 2-3 mm below the gumline.

One of the main advantages of an oral irrigator is its ability to reach as deep as 6 mm below the gumline.

This makes it a highly effective tool for maintaining oral health, as it removes plaque and bacteria from areas that regular brushing cannot access.

Regular use also improves gum circulation and reduces the risk of gingivitis and periodontitis.

For individuals with sensitive gums, an oral irrigator is especially beneficial, as the pressure can be adjusted to provide gentle yet thorough cleaning.

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Buying an oral irrigator – which one should you choose?

When purchasing an oral irrigator (or water flosser), it is important to consider the strength of the water jet, adjustable pressure settings, and the type of nozzles included.

Some of the most well-known brands are Waterpik, Oral-B, Philips Sonicare, and Panasonic, offering a wide range of models to suit different needs.

People with sensitive gums may prefer models with gentler water flow, while those seeking a more powerful clean might opt for devices with higher water pressure.

Portable models are ideal for travel, while countertop models typically offer more pressure settings and stronger water flow.

Also pay attention to the size of the water tank - smaller tanks may require multiple refills to clean all teeth thoroughly.

Before making a purchase, we recommend consulting your dentist to choose the oral irrigator that best suits your oral health needs.

What do our dentists say about oral irrigators?

An oral irrigator (or water flosser) can be a highly effective tool for maintaining oral hygiene, but the best way to use it - and whether it’s suitable at all - should be decided after a dental check-up and professional advice.

For each patient, we assess the condition of their teeth and gums and, based on their individual needs and habits, provide tailored guidance on how to safely and effectively incorporate a water flosser into their daily oral care routine.

So, if you're unsure whether a water flosser is the right choice for you, book an appointment with us for a consultation and personalized advice.

Oral irrigator – superior oral hygiene

Excellence in every smile

What is an oral irrigator?

Benefits of using an oral irrigator

How deep can an oral irrigator clean below the gumline?

Buying an oral irrigator – which one should you choose?

What do our dentists say about oral irrigators?

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