Waterpik to clean dental plaque, is it effective?

Toothbrush alone is not enough to clean plaque and food debris stuck on your teeth. Another thing you can do is floss your teeth, aka dental floss. Unfortunately, this method is difficult if you are not familiar with it. If you are interested in trying it but are still unsure, there is one other way you can do flossing, namely with a waterpik.

What is waterpik?

Waterpik is actually a water flosser brand that is well known throughout the world. Among the many water flossers on the market, Waterpik is the most famous because it has been scientifically proven to remove plaque on teeth. Well, this is what finally made many people know the water flosser as a waterpik.

Waterpik is an easier and more effective way for those of you who want to floss your teeth. However, unlike traditional dental flossing in general, which uses floss, waterpik uses a special machine.

This special machine works by spraying high pressure water to remove plaque and food debris that cannot be reached with a toothbrush or floss. Not only that, this tool also works to massage and stimulate the gums to improve circulation and keep them healthy and clean.

This dental care method is easy and practical to use, especially for people who wear braces, implants, crowns, bridges, or dental veneers.

How to use waterpik

Before using this tool, it is important that you read all instructions thoroughly and make sure you understand them.

Here are the steps you can take to use waterpik:

• Before using it, make sure that you have filled the water reservoir with warm water. Not only that, you can also mix mouthwash into this machine.
• Select the type of handle end to be used. For example, a pointed tip is used to clean dirt between the teeth. While the flat shape is used to clean the tongue, and the bristles are used to brush your teeth as a whole like a toothbrush.
• After that, plug the device into a power source and turn on the power button of the tool. It is better to start at a low pressure and increase the pressure to a higher level if necessary.
• Start by slowly cleaning the back teeth, then work your way up to the middle, then work your way up to the front. Don't forget to take a moment to rinse your mouth and throw the water away.
• When it feels clean, turn off the engine and remove the end of the handle.
• Then clean the unit according to the instructions on the packaging label. The reason is it is important to use the tools according to the instructions listed on the packaging for safe use and care of the product itself.

Lack of waterpik as routine dental care

Even though it offers convenience and other benefits for your dental care, however, Waterpik also has its drawbacks. Some of the drawbacks of this one tooth cleaning tool that you can consider include:

• It is more expensive than if you are using dental floss.
• Requires separate space to store it because its size is not small.
• Requires electricity and water, so it is difficult if you want to use this appliance outside a home that does not have access to electricity.
• In addition, this tool is also susceptible to damage if not cared for and used carefully.