A water pick, or oral irrigator, directs a pressurized stream of pulsating water to clean the mouth. This stream removes food debris, loose plaque, and bacteria from the surfaces of the teeth and gums. For individuals undergoing orthodontic treatment, these devices are highly beneficial. Dental professionals recommend water picks to help maintain oral hygiene around the complex hardware of braces.
How Water Picks Clean Around Braces
Brackets, archwires, and bands create numerous hidden spaces where food particles and plaque accumulate easily. Traditional brushing and flossing often struggle to maneuver effectively around this hardware. The water pick uses a focused, high-pressure pulse of water that penetrates areas inaccessible to standard floss or toothbrush bristles.
This jet efficiently dislodges trapped food and disrupts the sticky biofilm of plaque on the teeth and appliance surfaces. Flushing debris from around the brackets and beneath the wires reduces the risk of decalcification, which causes permanent white spots. The cleaning action along the gum line also provides a gentle massaging effect, helping to reduce gingivitis.
Step-by-Step Guide to Using a Water Pick
Preparation
Fill the device’s reservoir with lukewarm water; a small amount of non-alcoholic mouthwash may be added. Insert the specialized orthodontic tip, which is often tapered to navigate the braces. Lean over the sink to allow the water to drain, and set the pressure control to a low level when starting out.
Technique
Turn the unit on only after placing the tip inside your mouth and closing your lips slightly to prevent splashing. Aim the tip at the gum line at a 90-degree angle to the tooth surface. Guide the water stream along the archwire, tracing the path above and below each bracket. Pause briefly at the spaces between the teeth and around the base of the brackets to flush the area thoroughly. Start with the back teeth and work forward, cleaning both the front and back surfaces of every tooth.
Integrating the Water Pick into Daily Oral Care
A water pick enhances the cleaning routine but does not replace traditional methods of plaque removal. While the device excels at flushing debris and disrupting loose bacteria, it does not substitute for the mechanical action of toothbrush bristles or string floss on the tooth surface. It is recommended to use the water pick at least once a day, preferably in the evening, after brushing. This sequence allows the water pick to flush away remaining particles loosened by brushing, especially from around the brackets and wires. Consistency in using the water pick, alongside regular brushing, helps ensure the health of your teeth and gums throughout orthodontic treatment.