Flossing with braces can be a challenging task, but using a waterpik is an easy and effective way to maintain good oral hygiene. In this comprehensive guide, we will discuss everything you need to know about using a waterpik with your braces, including its benefits, instructions on how to use it, and which waterpik is right for you.
What is a Waterpik?
A waterpik is a type of water flosser that is designed for dental care at home. This device uses a small stream of water to remove debris from the mouth and is particularly useful for people with braces.
The Benefits of Using a Waterpik for Braces
There are several benefits to using a waterpik with your braces:
- It is more gentle on your gums than traditional flossing, which can help reduce bleeding and inflammation.
- The waterpik can remove more plaque and food particles that may be unreachable with a toothbrush and dental floss.
- The pulsating action of the waterpik can stimulate your gums, improving circulation and helping to prevent gingivitis.
How to Use a Waterpik with Braces
Here are the instructions on how to use a waterpik with your braces:
- Fill your waterpik's reservoir with lukewarm water and place it firmly on the base.
- Insert the waterpik tip and click into the handle.
- Adjust the pressure control (start at a low pressure), then lean over the sink and place the tip into your mouth.
- Turn on the machine and close your lips to prevent splashing, let the water flow from the mouth into the sink.
- Begin with the back teeth, aim the tip towards the gumline.Pause and gently brush the area between the teeth and circle around the orthodontic bracket or appliance.
- Move on to the next tooth and repeat.
By following these simple steps, you can effectively use a waterpik to clean around your brackets and maintain healthy gums during your orthodontic treatment.
Which Waterpik is Right for You?
There are different models of waterpik designed for various needs and preferences. Here are some of the most popular waterpik models for people with braces:
- Aquarius ProfessionalWP-670: This advanced water flosser includes on/off water control on the handle, an LED information panel, seven tips, a one-minute timer with a 30-second pacer, and new pulse-modulation technology to provide maximum plaque removal in Floss Mode and enhanced gum stimulation in Hydro-Pulse Massage Mode.
- Water Flosser for KidsWP-260: For children six years old and above, this waterflosser has an extra safe, kid-proof electrical design, easy fingertip controls on the On/Off switch and the Pressure Control System, a reservoir that can be used as a cover to keep the unit clean, and all covered under a two-year warranty.
- Traveler Water Flosser WP-300: With a compact design that is ideal for smaller bathrooms and travel, this model also features global voltage compatibility for easy use in any country around the world, four tips, a pressure control system, and a premium travel case.
Choose the waterpik that best suits your needs and preferences, whether you want something advanced and easy to use or something more compact and travel-friendly.
##Using a waterpik with your braces can be a simple and effective way to maintain good oral hygiene. By following the instructions above and choosing the right waterpik for your needs, you can effectively remove plaque and food particles from around your brackets and maintain healthy gums during your orthodontic treatment.
At Frey Orthodontics, we believe in providing our patients with the best possible care and tools to achieve a beautiful and confident smile. If you have any questions or concerns about your orthodontic treatment or need recommendations for a waterpik or other dental tools, please don't hesitate to contact us today to schedule a braces check-up.