An Oral Irrigator is a teeth-cleaning tool that uses the force of water to clean debris away from between your teeth and under your gumline. It can be a handy tool for helping to keep your braces clean. There are various types of Oral Irrigators:
- Countertop versions that you plug in to an electrical outlet
- Portable versions that use batteries or are rechargeable
- Types that attach directly to your bathroom sink faucet
- Types that attach directly to your shower head
Oral Irrigators are sometimes called Water Flossers or Dental Water Jets. The term Waterpik is a copyrighted brand name for the original oral irrigator, invented in 1962 by hydraulic engineer John Mattingly and dentist Gerald Moyer.
Some people use an Oral Irrigator instead of flossing. However, it is best to use a combination of oral irrigation and regular flossing to keep your teeth and gums healthy.
Synonyms:
Waterpik, Water Flosser, Dental Water Jet