I have always endorsed the Water Pik oral irrigator, but for very specific limited situations. I feel it is an indispensable adjunct to brushing and flossing while undergoing orthodontic procedures. It is unmatched in blasting out food particles from orthodontic brackets that were unscathed by floss and toothbrush.
In those with dexterity or compliance issues with oral hygiene, I feel the Water Pik is a distant second to floss in dislodging food from between the teeth that could contribute to tooth decay.
More recently, I have been actively advocating the use of the Water Pik in our aging population to curtail the onset or propagation of gum disease in those who have experienced the inevitable recession of gums that is age related. When the gums recede, the irregular surfaces of the teeth (in particular the multi-rooted bicuspids and molars) become exposed. The depressions formed from the junction of multiple roots do not readily lend themselves to cleaning with toothbrush and floss alone. If you find yourself in this situation, I am confident you will find the Water Pik to be a marvelous adjunct to your normal cleaning routine. Like me, you will probably be amazed at how much debris you will discover. Sigh! Who said aging was easy?
Good health to all,
Kenneth B. Hashimoto, D.M.D
