If you hate flossing, you are not alone. An oral irrigator, more commonly known as a water pick, may be a compromise you can live with. Although it may not completely remove plaque from between the teeth and below the gum line, it can be more effective than brushing alone. An oral irrigator shoots a jet of water that dislodges food particles between teeth and prevents the buildup of plaque. People with braces usually find that using an oral irrigator is much faster than threading floss under the wires. It is important to compare oral irrigators before settling on a model to buy.
Instructions
1. Determine how many members of your family will be using the oral irrigator and buy one that includes enough storage for that number of tips. Oral irrigators have color-coded tips that snap into the handle so each member of the family can easily keep track of which one to use.
2. Look at the dimensions of the oral irrigator unit to ensure you have enough counter space in the bathroom. You will want a more upright model if you have limited counter space. If you have none, you can buy an oral irrigator that attaches directly to the faucet and only requires storing the hose and the tips.
3. Choose a quiet oral irrigator if it might be used early in the morning while family members are still sleeping.
4. Identify what specialty tips come with the oral irrigator or are compatible with it. There are toothbrush tips, tongue cleaner tips and special tips for cleaning around braces.
5. Assess the unit's user controls. Some units have the pressure control on the handle, or at least a pause button. If you have sensitive gums or if food becomes easily trapped in your teeth, you may want more pressure adjustments. Some units have only one pressure setting, while others may have up to 10.
6. Estimate how much water you will need to clean your teeth with an oral irrigator. The reservoir's capacity can range from 120 to 1,000 milliliters.
7. Consider a portable, cordless oral irrigator if you travel frequently want to be able to bring your oral irrigator with you.
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