Created 16/12/2023.
Dental irrigators, necessity or overkill?
We have repeatedly talked about the importance of toothbrushing and the hygiene we must have to avoid the formation of cavities or even gum problems. And of course, we must be very clear that the tiny gaps that exist between tooth and tooth are an easy target to be a latent source of infection because they are filled with food debris, bacterial colonies, etc. The paradise of bacterial plaque formation and caries.
It is for this reason that the cleaning of this area becomes absolutely essential but, for some reason, most of us do not pay attention to these small details.What can we do to wash the parts that the toothbrush cannot reach? For the cleaning of these areas, we can now use a method of oral irrigation. These are devices that send a small jet of water directed under pressure on the surface of the tooth and also on its sides.
Its objective is basically to eliminate under pressure, the food debris that accumulates in the spaces between the teeth and the traditional toothbrush cannot reach, as we mentioned at the beginning.
Using an oral irrigator allows our dental hygiene to be deeper and more effective, although it is not the total solution to dental problems. While it is true that some brands promise to eliminate dental plaque, the truth is that they do not eliminate it completely or in the same way as a professional dentist would; it is reduced a little, but it will never eliminate 100% of the presence of this bacterial plaque.
The best thing to do is to let yourself be advised by specialized dentists, such as those at IMOI clinics in Barcelona and Ibiza. Book an appointment and we will perform a dental CT scan and a Premium Dental Study in your first visit totally free. From the first moment you will be attended by experts who will check your mouth and explain everything related to oral cleaning and the use of dental irrigators. Even if you decide to use them, do not forget that it is best to have an annual or biannual cleaning, depending on the appearance of tartar, in our dental clinics. This way you will be able to prevent any dental problems you may have in the future.
In which persons is the use of oral irrigators prescribed?
Basically it can be used by anyone, but in periodontal diseases dental irrigators are very effective because it allows a deep cleaning when used together with some other medications such as triclosan, chlorhexidine, sanguinarine, among others.
For patients with orthodontics it can also be a great ally because it cleans areas that the toothbrush cannot cover and where it is difficult to floss.
Those who use conventional fixed prostheses or those who have implants can use irrigators to improve the hygiene of their dental pieces, they are ideal to avoid bacterial colonies that could be formed by a neglect in hygiene and that is why they are very indicated.
We recommend the use of an oral irrigator if you have periodontal diseases or if you are using dental appliances; otherwise we could say that it is advisable but not essential. You can use it more often although it does not become a staple.
What does a device intended to irrigate the mouth look like?
There are many brands and models, many of which only attach to an electric toothbrush. It is two devices in one. Others combine air and water to give greater propulsion to the jet, which, according to studies, allows irrigation to be more effective, even allowing the user to regulate the amount of water.
There are many and of very varied prices your IMOI dentist could guide you to choose the most suitable one.
Benefits of using an oral irrigator.
Surely you must have told us that it is very obvious to know the benefits of using an appliance of this nature, but we want to point out the benefits they will have on your oral health:
- The oral irrigator helps to significantly reduce gingivitis and bleeding gums.
- The irrigator greatly reduces the number of pathogenic subgingival bacteria, thus reducing the possible occurrence of caries.
- Ideal for the prevention of oral diseases in patients who have diabetes
- Helps in periodontal therapies by increasing the oral hygiene that is normally present.
- Reduces gum inflammation
- In combination with brushing, it reduces plaque although it does not totally eliminate it.
- You can combine it with mouthwashes and it works perfectly to fight tooth and gum diseases.
- Massages the gums.
- Improves blood flow through the mouth which means healthy tissue.
How is the handpiece used?
It is very easy to use an oral irrigator; it should always be used after brushing the teeth as it is not a substitute for this practice. And at least once before going to sleep.
Follow these steps:
- You must first insert the handle of the device into your mouth and actuate it once inside.
- To know the correct position for use, you will hold the mouthpiece at a right angle of 90°, taking the position of your teeth as a reference.
- Pass the mouthpiece very slowly between teeth and between the edges of each tooth.
- Stop for about 5 seconds in each area for better efficiency and to get your tooth very clean.
IMPORTANT:
Be careful, because if you point the irrigator towards the gums and also have the water jet too strong, you can damage the periodontal ligament or your gums may be damaged. Always aim your irrigator at the hollows, at the areas where there is nothing but vacuum and tooth.
If you already suffer from periodontal disease, you should perform the movements gently, your IMOI dentist will explain the best way to do it. The water jet pressure should be gentle and instead of placing the irrigator at a 90° angle, you will form a slightly inclined 45° angle so that water enters very slowly inside the gum but will not damage it.
Finally, we emphasize that oral irrigationis an excellent ally for dental hygiene but it will NEVER replace brushing, so it is essential that you have your dental cleaning routine prior to using the appliance you have chosen to irrigate your mouth. Remember that the key to everything is proper daily cleaning, visiting your dentist every 6 months and proper maintenance of your teeth with your dental hygienist.
For any questions do not hesitate to use the chat on the page, our dentists will help you.
At IMOI Barcelona and IMOI Ibiza, we follow editorial principles that guarantee the authenticity of all the information we disseminate. If you are interested in learning more about how we ensure that our content is always up-to-date and accurately supported, we invite you to review our editorial commitment.
This article has been supervised by Dr. Ferran Novell Costa and Dra. Erjona Demiraj, specialists in Dental Health and Dental Aesthetics treatments. Responsible for the treatments provided at IMOI Barcelona and IMOI Ibiza and for the supervision and/or updating of the contents of this blog entry. (7/11/2023). The recommendations described are not generic and do not replace the diagnosis and evaluation of a professional in a dental office. If you want us to clarify any aspect or you want a personalized diagnosis and advice we recommend you to come to our dental clinics.
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