In recent years, irrigators have become the number 1 dental hygiene item as they offer better results. But what is a dental irrigator and what function does it serve in the cleaning process?
What is oral irrigation?
It is a device that expels a jet of pressurized water, which upon contact with the teeth serves to remove food debris and bacterial plaque (as well as tartar ) .
In other words, a complement for daily dental hygiene, which helps us in depth, with 99% more effectiveness, in daily oral cleaning. In fact, if you have ever gone to have your mouth cleaned at the dentist you have seen it on several occasions.
There are several models on the market, from the most prestigious brands in the sector such as Oral-B , Waterpik or Aquapik . Each one has its own unique characteristics, offering unique features.
What is the function of the dental irrigator?
You already know the definition of a dental irrigator, but what exactly is its function?
The main objective of its use is to improve the quality of oral cleaning, since the pressure jet can help to “weaken” the plaque, food debris and bacteria that adhere to the teeth.
As if that were not enough, the irrigator nozzles can be rotated, which allows you to easily clean the outer and inner layers of your teeth, something that a toothbrush can barely reach 30% off.
It should mainly be used by people who:
- Have trouble flossing dexterity.
- Suffer from tooth sensitivity.
- Wear dental braces, that is, orthodontics.
- Have recently had any intervention in your mouth, such as a bridge, placement of a crown or an implant.
A very IMPORTANT detail to keep in mind: Although the irrigator is more effective than a toothbrush and dental floss , it is in no way a substitute for both. In other words, it is a complement to improve oral hygiene, but in no case should it be used alone.
What does the dental irrigator do?
As we have mentioned before, the main function of this dental appliance is to thoroughly clean the mouth , more effectively than other oral hygiene utensils.
However, it is also designed to treat and combat certain conditions such as:
- Halitosis: Combining it with mouthwash helps eliminate the bacteria responsible for halitosis, being very useful for combating bad breath.
- Gingivitis: Those who suffer from gingivitis, or periodontitis, will find an oral irrigator very useful, as it will penetrate the periodontal pockets, cleaning the interior.
- Bacterial plaque: Bacterial plaque is a thin film that accumulates on our teeth from food and our own saliva. Thanks to the irrigator, you can easily remove it and prevent it from turning into tartar.
- Orthodontics or appliances: Most dental irrigators include exclusive heads for cleaning dental appliances or orthodontics, being more effective than brushes.
- Cleaning the interdental spaces: The gaps between the teeth are quite difficult to clean, and even if you use dental floss, you may not remove all of them. The pressure jet helps remove and remove them easily.
- Bleeding gums: This can be due to an illness or injury caused by brushing your teeth too hard, or by flossing. The jet not only cleans the inside of the gum, it also produces a massage sensation that gradually reduces the bleeding.
- Stains: It is very effective for removing black stains on teeth. What’s more, prolonged use helps teeth regain their natural color.
- Gum massage: Some irrigators have a massage function, or include technologies exclusive to the brand, which serve to massage the gums. A very useful function for those who suffer from dental sensitivity.
What is the difference between using an irrigator and getting a cleaning at the dentist?
Irrigators are a domestic model of the devices used by dentists, but in no case can they replace them , since they do not have the same power.
Although they serve to thoroughly clean the mouth, help to remove dirt and prolonged use helps teeth gradually recover their original tone, this does not mean that you should not go to the dentist for a cleaning.
In addition, it is very important that you use the irrigator regularly, at least once a day, so that it fulfills its function and your mouth benefits from all its advantages.