To keep your teeth healthy and beautiful, you need to take care of them daily. Of course, medicine has stepped forward, dentists offer many procedures that can restore teeth to their beauty and healthy appearance. But they are not cheap. So, maybe, not to bring the oral cavity to a state where bleaching and a number of complex services are needed? It is so easy to keep them clean and tidy. But a toothbrush and good paste will not be enough. To clean the interdental gaps, inaccessible places, tongue, gums, you will need oral irrigators . Which is better to choose to suit you, we will try to understand the article.
What is an irrigator for?
Not so long ago, a new word appeared in dentistry - “irrigator”. So what is this device with such an interesting name? In fact, everything is very simple. The irrigator resembles an ordinary brush, but it allows you to clean your teeth on a professional level. He copes with the most inaccessible places where food debris gets stuck. It works on a water basis using a special pump. Jet power can be selected individually. The device consists of the following elements:
- The compressor with which the work is done.
- Special bowl for water. In it you can pour medicinal solutions, herbs and more.
- Convenient handle with different nozzles.
As mentioned earlier, the power of the jet can be adjusted. It can be of several types: constant, pulsating, spraying. At first glance, it may seem that the device is useless, but in fact its effectiveness is quite large. Leading dentists prove and confirm this.
Portable irrigator
Want to buy oral irrigators? "Which is better to choose?" - this is perhaps the most popular question among potential buyers. You need to proceed from the purpose for which you need it. For example, for those who often travel on business trips, traveling, a portable irrigator is perfect. Its feature is that it does not require a socket for operation. It is powered by batteries or a special battery that can be charged in advance.
It is compact, has a small size, fits perfectly in a suitcase or travel bag. There are models that fold in half, while the nozzle itself is closed with a cap. This prevents bacteria and germs from entering the device. Such an irrigator can fit even in a small handbag.
But there are also disadvantages. In such a device, nozzles are not included. Therefore, its functionality compared to a stationary irrigator is significantly reduced.
Or maybe try a flow-through irrigator?
It's time to get acquainted with the flowing irrigator. The principle of its operation is quite simple. It connects to the tap itself, like a filter. But at the same time, you will use running water, not boiled, to clean the oral cavity. Another disadvantage is the inability to use treatment solutions and fluids that dentists often prescribe if there are problems in the oral cavity.
What are the benefits of a stationary irrigator?
Stationary oral irrigator is used, as a rule, in dental clinics. It has many nozzles that completely clean the interdental crevices, braces, crowns, and other elements. You can use it only when connected to an electrical network. Many people prefer to have such a device at home, in order to less visit medical offices. The only negative is the large size. This irrigator requires a separate shelf. At the same time, you need to use it very carefully so that there is no source of water nearby.
Choose the device correctly
Oral hygiene products are presented in stores and pharmacies in a huge assortment. Among them you can find a variety of toothbrushes, flosses, irrigators. The latter have become very popular nowadays. But you need to choose the device correctly, taking into account all the nuances:
- Pay attention to the glass for liquid. The pressure of the jet and the operating time will depend on its volume. It is better to choose the reservoir for the liquid, which provides for the use of water, medicinal tinctures and other therapeutic agents.
- The power of the device is an important feature. It is better to choose the irrigator, whose indicators range from 2 to 10. With such power, even in the most inaccessible places there will not be a tiny bit.
- The more nozzles, the more noticeable the final result.
- As a separate item, I would like to highlight special nozzles for braces and other orthodontic elements. If you have such in your mouth, be sure to ask your consultant about the availability of such a nozzle.
- Think in advance about the place where the irrigator will be installed. It may be more convenient for you to buy a device that is mounted on a wall and does not occupy an additional shelf in the bathroom.
There are no perfect irrigators. Everyone should choose it individually for themselves, after consulting with a doctor.
Overview of oral irrigators
Nowadays, dentists recommend acquiring oral irrigators. Which is better to choose, to be understood below. All of them differ in the manufacturer, price, models, functions.
The most common option is the Aquajet oral irrigator. Its cost is relatively small - about 3000 rubles. At the same time, it has all the necessary functions to professionally clean teeth from plaque. There are 4 nozzles in the kit, all of them are indicated by different color stickers. The speed of the jet can be adjusted (4th - maximum). In addition to a convenient stand, it is possible to attach it to the wall. Measuring cup - 500 ml. You can clean the oral cavity with the help of water, as well as resorting to the use of special medicines.
A more expensive model is the Waterpik 100 oral irrigator. The average cost is 8,000 rubles. The model is almost silent. Designed for two family members. Elegant design is another highlight that distinguishes the device from other similar models. Particular attention should be paid to this irrigator for those who wear braces or implants, since the kit includes a special nozzle for them. Many brushes allow you to completely clean the oral cavity, tongue, gums. The volume of a glass for liquid is 600 ml. 10 modes for regulating the power of the jet.
Donfeel oral irrigator is more suitable for beginners. The compact model has 4 nozzles. The downside is that the water jet can only work in one standard mode. Large glass for liquid, with a volume of 500 ml. It creates quite a lot of noise at work. Cost - 4000 rubles.
Aquapulsar Oral Irrigator is quite popular with buyers. The cost is relatively small - about 4000 rubles. There are 4 nozzles. The volume of the bowl is 500 ml. Can be attached with dowels and screws that come with the kit to the wall. Power supply fluid includes 2 modes.
When choosing irrigators, pay special attention to the warranty card. Verified companies give a one-year guarantee.
We pay attention to nozzles
When considering an oral irrigator (the price of such a device, as we found out, is quite high), pay special attention to the nozzles included in the kit. As a rule, they are universal. But more expensive models have individual nozzles:
- with rubber soft surface for complete cleaning of the tongue;
- for periodontal implants and braces;
- for gum massage;
- nasal, for washing the nose.
All of them are marked in different colors so that family members do not mix nozzles with each other. This is very convenient, especially if the family has children.
Instructions for use
By purchasing a similar device, you need to not only know how to use an oral irrigator, but also what to do to extend its life:
- be sure to carefully read the instructions;
- pour only permitted liquids into the water bowl;
- try to use soft, filtered water so that the coating does not form on the device;
- children should use the device only under the guidance and supervision of adults (kids love to play with irrigators, this should not be allowed, otherwise the complex mechanism can quickly deteriorate);
- try to brush your teeth first with a regular brush, and then use the device;
- Do not use the irrigator continuously for more than 7-10 minutes.
By following all these simple rules, you can be sure that the device will last you a long time.
Doctors recommend
Oral hygiene products on the shelves of specialized stores are presented in a wide assortment. But still there is a special category of people whom doctors strongly recommend using irrigators. Among them:
- People with diabetes. The fact is that any microtrauma can lead to serious consequences. The wounds heal poorly, fester. In order not to injure the gums, it is better to use a similar device, a soft stream of water will completely clean the oral cavity, while not causing pain.
- Children and adults who have braces, implants, crowns, prostheses. Believe me, no toothbrush can clean hard-to-reach places, as a result of this enamel destruction occurs in the area where food particles and microorganisms remain.
Ideally, irrigators should be present in every family, because good teeth are the key to a healthy body as a whole.
Are there any contraindications?
There are situations when the use of irrigators is undesirable:
- Recently undergone surgery in the oral cavity (unhealed sutures, wounds).
- Diseases of periodontal tissues in the acute stage.
- If after using the device you have increased bleeding of the gums, you need to consult a dentist for advice, perhaps the problem is not related to the device. Or you are using the wrong jet power and nozzle.
- With stomatitis, gingivitis. Using the device during an exacerbation of the disease is strictly prohibited, so as not to spread the infection throughout the oral cavity.
- Childhood. Do not give an irrigator to children under 5-6 years of age. They can be swallowed by water.
Nevertheless, before using the device, you should contact your dentist, he will give detailed instructions on how to use the irrigator, and he will examine the oral cavity, taking into account individual characteristics, select the correct nozzle and jet power.
We observe safety precautions
Before you buy an irrigator, be sure to consider the moment where it will be located at your place. If the device is stationary, in order to start working, it will be necessary to connect it to the mains voltage of at least 220 V. But according to safety precautions, sockets with such voltage cannot be in the bathroom.
Conclusion
Nowadays, oral irrigators are quite popular. “Which is better to choose?” Is perhaps the most pressing question, because the range is huge. Each manufacturing company claims that their device is special. When purchasing an irrigator, pay attention to the nozzles, the volume of the glass for the liquid, the power system, and the power of the jet. Better yet, consult a dentist before purchasing. He will tell you the model that is perfect for you. We hope our tips will help you make the right choice and your smile and teeth will be impeccable.