A water pick for safe, effective oral hygiene.
A water pick is used for oral irrigation or spraying water into the mouth and onto the teeth. It helps flush out and remove food particles trapped between your teeth, and provides a gentler approach to teeth cleaning in comparison to brushing and flossing, which can cause gum inflammation and bleeding. If you're thinking of using a water pick, there are several tips that can help you achieve optimal results.
Part Of A Routine
While using a water pick is gentler than brushing and flossing, it's also not as effective at removing plaque and preventing gingivitis, cavities and other dental issues, according to Mayo Clinic-you shouldn't replace your toothbrush and dental floss with a water pick, as it is not a viable substitute on its own. Instead, incorporate the water pick as a supplement to your daily dental care routine.
Water Pressure
Most water picks have switches that allow you to select between different strengths or pressures of water. According to Waterpik.com if you're using a water pick for the first time it's a good idea to begin on the lowest or base setting. As your gums and teeth get used to the pressure, you can gradually increase it. This will help prevent any initial discomfort.
Mouth Orientation
Before you begin using your water pick, you'll want to position your head over the sink, so that you can spit or drain out excess water from your mouth. Once you start spraying, keep your lips as close to sealed as possible to prevent water from splashing out of your mouth uncontrollably, and to ensure the pick targets your teeth and gums. Leave a small gap so you can constantly drain out the used water-you don’t want to swallow the plaque, bacteria and other gunk that the pick loosens.
Pick Orientation and Procedure
Aim the tip of the water pick so that it's just above and perpendicular to the gum-line. This will ensure the water reaches all of the teeth’s gaps. A rule of thumb is to begin by spraying the back teeth first, and then follow the gum-line around to the other side. This method will help prevent you from skipping teeth and gaps.
For Braces
If you wear braces or some other type of orthodontic device, using a water pick can help remove bits of food that get stuck in those hard-to-reach places between wires and brackets. Try getting a specialized orthodontic tip attachment for your pick, which has a tapered end for better penetrating small spaces.
