• PR Request
  • Contact us

Grinning Cheek To cheek

Parenting and Family Lifestyle

  • Grinning Cheek To cheek
  • HOME
  • Toy Reviews
  • PARENTING
  • Technology
  • PRODUCTS WE LOVE
  • Travel
  • RECIPES
You are here: Home / #Medical & Dental / The Woes of a Dental Hygienist -and my thoughts on Waterpik

The Woes of a Dental Hygienist -and my thoughts on Waterpik

Being a Dental Hygienist, I am well aware of most of the dental products available.  I usually CRINGE when I’m in the dental care aisle and see people looking at some of the stuff that I’m not exactly fond of… like Plax brand mouthwash. Seriously guys. Clinically Proven to be as effective as water.  Awesome! *sarcasm* I always battle back and forth with the thoughts of approaching them and giving them a personal consultation…. But I don’t.  Usually…

The other day, I saw a guy in the store comparing an off-brand water flosser that was $40 on sale, and a $60 Waterpik.  I could tell that he was really trying to figure out why there was such a difference in price.

I couldn’t help myself. I *had* to say something.  I mean.. Sure, the cheap water flosser might feel like it’s working – but has it been through series of clinical studies to prove it’s effectiveness?  Probably not.

Waterpik Water Flossers are the only brand clinically proven to be an effective alternative to traditional floss for removing plaque biofilm and reducing gum bleeding and inflammation.

 

 


I told him that he should probably stick with the real deal, even given the price difference.  I also mentioned that I have that same Waterpik Ultra Water Flosser at home and love it – but not to be too grossed out with the stuff he sees falling out of his mouth into the sink.  I also mentioned that the Waterpik will most likely make his hygienist much happier than the sale priced off-brand – and very quickly and quietly told him that I was a dental hygienist.

 

My Recurring Nightmare

So… I usually have a hard time walking those isles because I really have a hard time keeping my mouth shut.  And I have this recurring nightmare about approaching people..




I’m terrified that if I speak up, I’ll be stuck in the dental care isle all day long answering questions… I envision the groups swarming me muttering to each other that there’s a LIVE dental hygienist in the store and she’s answering questions, for free!

Back to the Waterpik

Really guys- you can’t get much better than a Waterpik. I mean. *SOME* people have the physical capabilities and the persistence with floss to actually remove most of the debris from the pockets in their gums (without destroying them)… but most people just go in – and out.

With a Waterpik, you *know* that you’re getting the best results – because you can see the crap coming out of your teeth!  I’ve even done this after brushing and flossing, and still see stuff falling into the sink. It’s gross – but cool, too.

 

 

 

My personal thoughts as a dental hygienist

      • Regular floss is capable of going approximately 3 millimeters (mm) deep into your gums.  That’s great if every single one of your pockets is 3mm or less.  But.  Most healthy adult’s pockets range from 2-5mm (and up!).  The Waterpik Water Flosser has been proven to get as much as 6mm deep below the gums.

image

Can’t get much better than that!  I recommend the Waterpik to most all of my patients as well! Open-mouthed smile


***NOTE*** Updated 12/2015 

I still VERY highly recommend this Waterpik to all of my patients, friends, and family. I always talk to my patients about the countertop waterpik vs. the cordless waterpik. The Cordless is great, and it works – but it’s best if it’s just for you to focus on a few areas. Ultimately to do your whole mouth you’ll have to stop and refill the cordless one several times before you’re complete. That’s just a pain for most people.

 

If you DO choose to go with a Cordless Waterpik, please choose one that has adjustable controls vs. the cheaper option that has a single setting. 

Cordless Waterpik 

If you don’t have counter space or you have a hard time with the water mess – I recommend the Waterpik Showerpik that attaches to your shower head! It’s a great solution, especially if you love long showers. You get to relax in the shower and take care of your teeth without making a giant mess all over the counter. This is available at Target.com and Amazon.com. 

 


Waterpik Showerpik
 

 

I also recommend this Waterpik Shower Head to anyone and everyone who’s looking for a new shower head – *and* to all breastfeeding moms with sore chests!

image

*Thanks for clicking on the links above to purchase your waterpik! I appreciate the support you’re showing with the information you’re getting! 

 
 

 

Teeth Whitening 4 You

 

«
»

#Medical & Dental 113

Comments

  1. Skye Moyer says

    December 21, 2011 at 9:44 pm

    The flosser looks great- but that showerhead is calling my name. We have needed a new one for forever, I had no idea (till now) they made showerheads!

    Reply
  2. Ashley T says

    December 21, 2011 at 9:45 pm

    All I can think about now is stuff falling out of my mouth. LOL I’m gonna have to get one of these. Thanks for the information.

    Reply
  3. Tree says

    December 21, 2011 at 9:54 pm

    Well, you sold me! 🙂 I’ve always wanted a Waterpik myself. And I LOVE Waterpik Shower Heads.. I’ve always bought those!

    Reply
  4. Karen says

    December 22, 2011 at 12:16 am

    I really need one!

    Reply
  5. {Not Quite} Susie Homemaker says

    December 22, 2011 at 12:20 am

    I have the Waterpik, too, and love it! I always feel super clean when I’m done with it! 🙂

    Reply
  6. Vanessa Coker says

    December 22, 2011 at 1:39 pm

    Ok I’m sold… I need it! and I’m already grossed just thinking of the ickies falling off my mouth… Oh God!

    Reply
  7. Cat Davis - Food Family Finds says

    December 22, 2011 at 11:49 pm

    I wish I had known you years ago. I’m beyond needing this but I sure could have then, I was so terrible about flossing.

    Reply
    • Amy says

      December 23, 2011 at 11:17 pm

      Most are super terrible about flossing – Even the regular flossers are not as good as they might think they are… Because even the regular floss is only going to go SO far under the gums.
      Sorry about your dental woes 🙁 Glad you’re working towards it now though! Feel free to ask me any questions! I don’t mind!

      Reply
  8. Waterpik Fan says

    July 9, 2012 at 5:46 am

    I struggled with flossing my whole life until I got a Waterpik Flosser, and now I floss every day with pride.

    Reply
  9. Rick Winquest says

    October 2, 2012 at 9:30 am

    I’ve been using a waterpik for just over a month and will never go back to flossing due to how great my mouth feels over flossing.

    Reply
  10. Marielaina Perrone DDS says

    October 6, 2012 at 5:26 pm

    Waterpik is a tremendous tool for patients at home care especially for those with limited dexterity. I would also add looking into Periogen. It is a tartar dissolving oral rinse to use between professional cleanings.

    Marielaina Perrone DDS

    Reply
    • Jeannine says

      February 7, 2016 at 12:56 pm

      Periogen didn’t do anything for me. What do you like about it?

      Reply
  11. Jan says

    November 15, 2012 at 10:12 pm

    After a Waterpic flosser is several years old, is there ever a problem with mold collecting in the tubing?

    Reply
    • Amy says

      November 25, 2012 at 11:18 pm

      I think there are several recommendations out there about cleaning out or replacing the tubing. I would highly recommend looking into that! 😀

      Reply
    • Anne D. says

      May 4, 2017 at 2:10 pm

      I add a drop of pre-diluted oil of oregano to the water about once a week (or more often if I want a cleaner mouth) and it will kill any germs lerking in the tubing…it does have a strong taste (not bad when you use one drop in a full size waterpik but it will also help kill more bacteria in your mouth!

      Reply
  12. Diane Girard says

    March 29, 2013 at 12:54 pm

    I have been using my Sonicare for years now and I just love it. Also, I have been flossing to have most of the tart removed and I noticed the Waterpik flosser at the store which I was unaware of and bought one. Does anyone knows if athe cordless water flosser from Waterpik is effective as the non cordless? Help!

    Reply
    • Amy says

      April 2, 2013 at 3:42 pm

      I am guessing that it is as effective. The only thing is that you’ll have to stop and re-fill it a few times – but you don’t have to deal with cords 🙂

      Reply
    • Teri says

      June 29, 2018 at 12:18 am

      Cordless units have a low pressure range of 45 psi, and high is 75 psi, not as high like counter top models which are 10 to 100 psi pressure range, but the cordless units still are enough pressure to do the job!

      Reply
  13. part time dental hygienist says

    April 24, 2013 at 10:09 pm

    I love my waterpik!!!! I have recommended it to my patients as well and they have grown to love it too. It definitely beats flossing with regular floss.

    Reply
  14. Robin Wilson says

    May 6, 2013 at 9:59 pm

    I know this is an older post, but wanted to read it because I am concerned about my 23 year old son! He used to have such great oral hygiene routine. But he has slacked off so much that it is making me crazy! I don’t know why, perhaps he is going through a “lazy” phase. But maybe this Waterpik would be something he would use. It would surely help some! Thanks for such an in-depth review!

    Reply
  15. Sherri Lewis says

    May 13, 2013 at 9:09 pm

    Maybe I should look into this…. because I am probably the world’s worst about flossing. Now…. you should do a post on manual versus electric toothbrushes 🙂

    Reply
  16. Carole Ingram says

    May 14, 2013 at 6:03 pm

    Thank you for this post, it’s got load of good information! We always get cavities because of our poor flossing habits, this might be a life saver for us. I’m going to investigate further….

    Reply
  17. Lynn says

    December 31, 2013 at 11:51 am

    I have used a WaterPik for years but have struggled with mold. I thought I was cleaning it but today took the handle apart. It was incrusted with black mold. It will have to be trashed because I shall not go back to that health hazard. Please advise. Lynn

    Reply
    • Amelia L. says

      December 22, 2018 at 1:18 am

      I was unaware of the mold growing in the handle of my waterpik until I got a severe throat infection and investigated. I threw the water pik out, since I believe all the cleaning methods suggested cannot totally remove all traces of the mold. I floss twice a day and also use a rubber tip tool recommended by my hygienist to stimulate the gums – it also had the benefit of removing debris missed by flossing.

      Reply
  18. Patty says

    November 13, 2014 at 6:28 am

    I used a Waterpik as a kid in the 70’s, when I wore braces. I didn’t know they still made them until my 13 y.o. daughters hygienist mentioned it on her last visit. Thanks for great review. I will be getting one! Kids flossing…yeah right! I wish someone would have mentioned it to us earlier at the dentist’s office.

    Reply
  19. A Waterpik Convert says

    November 15, 2014 at 4:36 pm

    I used to floss and use a Sonicare regularly, and I still got lousy checkups. My hygienist would say, “You know, you really should floss!” I’d scream, “BUT I DO!!!” It drove me crazy. It wasn’t until I added a Waterpik to the mix that I finally started to show improvement. It really does get out a lot of the food particles that both flossing and a Sonicare will miss. It’s amazing to brush and floss thoroughly and think you are clean, then fire up the Waterpik and really see how much junk was still hiding in there.

    If only I started my Waterpik routine when I was younger. My family had one but we mostly thought of it as a novelty. Like many adults, I have deep pockets in my gums and have to try extra hard to not let things get any worse. My routine at night is now:

    1. Waterpik
    2. Floss
    3. Waterpik again
    4. Sonicare
    5. Waterpik again (usually with some Listerine thrown into the tank)

    My wife thinks I’m nuts but I was getting desperate. Hopefully I’m not overdoing things. I try not to rip up my gums.

    I’ve shared my story with several dentists and hygienists, telling them that I never started getting good checkups at dentist until I started using a Waterpik. I’ve been surprised how many have poo poo’d the Waterpik. One told me, “That’s just an irrigator.”

    Whatever. I believe that all one needs to be a convert is to see all of the junk that comes out of your mouth. If it takes “just an irrigator” to do that, then I guess I need an irrigator.

    My only negative issue with Waterpiks is the mold. That stuff builds up in all of the nooks and crannies in the appliance. I wish the handle and other parts could be more easily taken apart so that I could thoroughly clean it.

    Reply
    • Amy says

      January 13, 2015 at 10:08 pm

      Ha! Just an Irrigator! It is just an irrigator, that helps irrigate the crap out of your teeth! I’m glad that you have this routine and I’m SURE it is helping your oral and systemic health. Good for you! 😀

      I still have to write a post about mold, huh… Someday…

      Reply
      • Simone says

        January 5, 2016 at 10:32 pm

        i’m still debating on the waterpik. Almost sold, it’s just the price holding ,e back as I am a student.

        In regards to all the mold questions, would it be possible to run a vinegar/water or hydrogen peroxide mixture through to clean it?

        Reply
        • Teri says

          June 29, 2018 at 6:59 am

          Waterpik’s are wonderful and clinically proven to clean your mouth and gums 99% more effective than string floss. There is an app you can try and do the 14 day challenge to try and see immediate results! There is alot of mention of mold in the units, the main cause we see with mold in the units are when the units are not cleaned as recommended in the manual under hard water deposits and cleaning. The units are recommended to be cleaned once a month with white vinegar and warm water, two tablespoons of white vinegar and half of the reservoir tank fill with warm water, then turn on the unit and hold in the sink, and then fill the tank full of warm water and rinse out the unit with the unit on. You want to clean the tips that are used soak in the vinegar and warm water for 20 mins in a bowl. If you have a handle with the unit you want to submerge the while handle in a bowl of vinegar and warm water solution for 20 mins. This gathers any build up that can get in the unit just from daily use, using mouth wash and or additives as well as hard water some areas have. Build up can get on the pump and can completely stop your unit from working, and build up can cause leaking and clogged tips, and even cause cracks in the hose and handle. Additives such as peroxide, baking soda salt Water and essential oils can harm the unit, especially oils, not a good idea we have seen units returned to be looked at by our engineers and it gets into the motor as well and seized up the motors. Mouth wash is okay to use, as long as its cleans monthly and rinsed out with full tank of warm water after flossing.
          Charging units as long as they are not being charged all the time, or let the battery die down completely the unit will last you 4, 5, 6 plus years. The waterpik complete care units with toothbrush and flosser in one, you dont want to keep the toothbrush always in the base, or will be charging all the time and will over charge and stop holding a charge and ruin the battery. You can unplug the flosser when not on use if you want to keep toothbrush in the base, and charge the toothbrush when the battery light is on one line charge it over night then unplug the unit. Cordless units you charge only need once a week for 8 to 12 hours or over night and then unplug the charger. Not all units are able to go into the shower, and there is only a few global models you add an adapter to to use out of the country.

          Reply
    • Paul says

      August 29, 2016 at 6:27 am

      I think you may be blasting away the fluoride from your toothpaste when you waterpik after brushing. The first two irrigations should be more than enough. I’d add a rinse containing fluoride to the end of your routine.

      Reply
      • Trav says

        December 11, 2017 at 1:50 am

        Fluoride isn’t healthy anyway, shouldn’t be a worry.

        Reply
  20. Rebecca says

    December 20, 2014 at 12:35 pm

    This morning as I was using my water pik to clean my teeth, I realized that I have had and used this appliance for 37 years.
    my parents bought it for me when I was 11 and had braces put on my teeth. I have thought of replacing it, but it is still going strong.
    I wonder if the newer ones are as well made. I would never go with a cheaper model because I doubt it would be as reliable. It still
    Takes any gunk out of my teeth. I notice it runs a little slow once in awhile now and takes a minute to pull itself together. I might
    actually be wearing poor old pik out. I clean it occasionally with bleach and haven’t had a big problem with mold.

    Reply
    • Amy says

      January 13, 2015 at 10:09 pm

      Wow! That’s a LONG time for one appliance. That’s impressive! It may be time for another one soon – you won’t regret it though 😀

      Reply
  21. Bill G says

    January 3, 2015 at 1:43 am

    Thanks to this article, I just bought a Waterpik. I even used the link here to hopefully get you a little change in your pocket. If that link doesn’t do that you should update to one that does cuz it’s free for everyone involved.

    Reply
    • Amy says

      January 13, 2015 at 9:42 pm

      Well thank you very much! I think it is updated, but I’ll definitely double check. Glad to be helpful!

      Reply
  22. Ann says

    January 12, 2015 at 8:38 pm

    Love the waterpik! Hate the mold!! It’s persistent and gross enough that I may be back to regular flossing. If there’s mold in places I can see, I’m scared to know what’s in the places I CAN’T see!

    Reply
  23. www.Igilab.com says

    March 16, 2015 at 4:09 am

    Having read this I believed it was extremely enlightening.

    I appreciate you finding the time and effort to put this content
    together. I once again find myself personally spending a lot
    of time both reading and posting comments. But so
    what, it was still worth it!

    Reply
  24. Bob says

    March 23, 2015 at 4:04 pm

    Love the water blast and have been using Waterpik brand products for over a quarter century. I like the battery powered unit for travel as well as the countertop units when home.

    What I hate is the nasty mold!!! My travel unit doesn’t see enough use to have developed the problem but every counter top unit I have ever owned no matter which model it was got the funk.

    I don’t care how many preventative measures one performs or how often, it simply WILL NOT MATTER!!! You can run Vinegar, Efferdent, Listerine or Kerosene over and through the darn things!

    You can try rubbing it out, you can try scrubbing it out, you can try blasting it out, you can try taking it completely apart after each use and you will still end up with . . . mold around the collar or some darn where!!!

    If I could find a different water blasting product that had the high pressure capability I value and didn’t develop mold I’d dump this brand in a heartbeat but I’m not going to route the hose and wand from my gasoline engine powered pressure washer into the bathroom.

    If they just made the product so it could be easily disassembled and tossed in the dish washer on a bi-weekly basis they’d have a winner but why when they can sell me a new one every year.

    That’s right; I keep ‘em a year and toss ‘em. I use it twice a day every day for 365 days toss it and go dump another $60 bucks on a new one. Do the math, that’s $.08 per use . . . well worth it but still.

    Really Waterpik? You folks can’t design a better mold free product after all the profit you’ve made off of me?? Seriously, come awn???

    Reply
    • Jeannine says

      February 7, 2016 at 1:00 pm

      Where do you see mold with it? I haven’t seen any on mine; it a few years old. After I am finished with it, I allow the cord to hang down into my bathtub, hoping that all the water gets drained out. I don’t know what other preventative measure to take.

      Reply
      • Lawrence D Schultz says

        November 27, 2018 at 12:03 am

        I travel internationally, so I have the multi voltage travel version, No matter how I rinse, store or deep clean, I still find evidence of mold growth inside the handle. I run a half tank of warm water through the system after every use (I only use bottled water in my pik), while it is spraying, eject the tip, and divert the pressure through the handle, and occasionally chunks of mold will be washed out of the handle. Tonight, I was actually banging the handle on the counter and letting the water flush out huge chunks of mold broke loose from the inside of the handle. Guess it is time for a new one; don’t need to be shooting mold chunks directly into my gums.

        Reply
        • Warthog says

          December 21, 2018 at 9:30 pm

          As long as the mold isn’t in the flow path, it is harmless. Inside the handle things get damp and mold grows, but that mold matters not at all. It is the stuff inside the flow path that is potentially harmful.

          Reply
  25. susan says

    May 23, 2015 at 6:31 pm

    what model do you recommend?

    Reply
  26. herrbrahms says

    September 19, 2015 at 2:25 pm

    I’m a novice to Waterpik, but the complaints about mold are concerning. The one thing I know of that sterilizes without leaving behind a chemical residue (ok, ionizing radiation as well, but the plastic won’t handle too much UV) is hydrogen peroxide. My plan is to periodically run H2O2 through the tank, line, and tip, then leave the unit out in the light. That will decompose the peroxide to oxygen and water over the next 24 hours, and a quick flush before I use it next time will ensure I don’t ingest any of it.

    The mold and bacteria won’t know what hit them.

    Reply
  27. Joe W. Ivan says

    October 9, 2015 at 10:55 pm

    Thanks for the info…
    I found it very useful and led me to some instructional videos on YOUTUBE.

    The one i have included has to do with maintenance of the Waterpik. I’m not sure if running the unit dry for long is a good idea, but I tried it and it seems to be OK…

    https://youtu.be/-hM_Q93t8zQ

    Reply
  28. Nic says

    December 6, 2015 at 3:41 pm

    Thanks for this. I’m looking into getting one. I’ve just got some fixed braces and my teeth don’t look as clean as I’d like (but I do feel like a teenager again!). I think I’ll get a cordless one as we don’t have a power socket in the bathroom.

    Reply
    • Amy says

      December 8, 2015 at 7:57 am

      Good thought! Just remember with a cordless one, you’ll have to fill it multiple times!

      Waterpik DOES have a pick that attaches to the shower head, so it gives you the opportunity to hang out in the shower caring for your teeth 😉
      That’d be my next best suggestion before the cordless. But if you’re OK filling it several times, then the cordless is the way to go!
      Good luck with braces!! I had them twice… bleh.

      Reply
  29. Jenny says

    February 4, 2016 at 1:27 pm

    Hi! I was wondering if I possibly used the waterpik to roughly. I have the cordless and it has two settings, I kept it on high going around my bridge and crowns and now those areas have increased from 3s to 4s. Is it possible to do damage with the waterpik?

    Thank you for your advice!

    Reply
    • Amy says

      April 16, 2016 at 8:22 am

      Sorry for the delay. I am guessing that you wouldn’t do any damage with the waterpik, and would more-likely relate it to tartar buildup, age, stress, medications etc…
      But definitely continue to brush/floss/rinse and use the waterpik around those bridges and crowns.
      Did you have the same hygienist as the time before? It could be the difference in hygienists as well, we always say there’s a variance of 1mm either direction between hygienists.
      *ultimately: I consider 4’s to be fairly ‘normal’ around crowns and bridges because the gums cannot attach to the metal or porcelain sub-structure. 🙂 Ask if there was more bleeding or plaque there? If it’s bleeding a lot, maybe angle the water deeper into the gums vs. through the space in the bridge.

      Reply
  30. Jenny says

    February 4, 2016 at 1:27 pm

    Make that *too* roughly.

    Reply
  31. Dominick Wall says

    April 11, 2016 at 10:45 pm

    I bought my first Waterpik from Costco several years ago, was very happy with it, recently the hose broke. I bought a new one at Target, was very disappointed, it was much lighter, made a lot more noise and lot less pressure. Just seems to be a lot cheaper in its construction.

    Reply
    • Amy says

      April 16, 2016 at 8:24 am

      ..Story of our lives, right???

      Be sure to keep a copy of your receipt – I think Waterpik has a warranty, and I hear *great* customer service!

      Reply
    • warthog says

      December 21, 2018 at 9:32 pm

      You can get replacement hose and handle. Very easy to change.

      Reply
  32. Polly says

    May 9, 2016 at 11:56 pm

    My daughter is 3.5 years old, she has gingivitis, is this very common? I started helping her to floss everyday, is her teeth going to return back to normal and healthy later after we take good care of it? Since the back molars are not yet closed and there’s a gap between the two molars, food always stuck in there, even floss can’t get rid of the partical. So I bought her a Watepik floss, but I am very afraid is it too young for a 3.5 years old to use Watepik????? Since there’s some water pressure while using Watepik, is that going to hurt her gum????

    Reply
    • Amy says

      May 17, 2016 at 9:22 pm

      My 5yo has gingivitis almost constantly. His teeth are crowded and his gums are always puffy and bleedy, even when we floss regularly. I think just keep doing your best brushing her teeth two times per day, using the smallest toothbrush head you can find, being sure to use a small circular motion halfway on her tooth and halfway on her gums (to massage the gums as you’re brushing her teeth).
      I often put my boys’ heads in my lap while I sit cross legged – and I use my finger to pull their cheek open to get to the molar areas.
      In the spaces, floss should be able to get the stuff out – but if not, try the waterpik at a lower pressure. Don’t angle the water directly down into the root area, but rather to flush between the teeth.

      Hope that helps!!

      Reply
  33. Annette Green says

    May 16, 2016 at 1:03 am

    question: In a nursing home,94 years old. How easy or difficult would a waterpik be for a nursing assistant to use on his teeth? Needs to clean thoroughly between his teeth-no dentures- and brush gums very well.
    Which pik should be used? The cnassistant needs something, easy because they have several patients to get ready for bed. I doubt if the resident receives more than one brushing and flossing daily.
    Thank you very much
    Annette

    Reply
    • Amy says

      May 17, 2016 at 9:17 pm

      I think it would be a little challenging. I’d go with a Sonicare toothbrush for them to help brush, and ask the cna if they’d be comfortable using the waterpick – even a few times a week would be helpful with that. But the sonciare daily!

      It’s been my experience that the nurses say they are ‘willing’ to do the work, but they rarely do. I see many patients from nursing homes and they have the worst hygiene. The patients often times say that they brushed, and the nurses don’t really feel like digging in mouths, so they just take their word for it.. I’d ask the one specifically responsible for him and be sure that she/he understands that it’s their responsibility to brush his teeth.

      Hope that helps!!

      Reply
  34. Lisa says

    July 26, 2016 at 9:38 am

    How many times a day should you use the Waterpik? I am new to it and love it so far. Some days I have used it am and pm, but recently went to just pm, since nothing would really get in them during the night-lol! It comes with a tooth brush head, I’m concerned it will not work as well as my manual head, since the directions say not to apply pressure like a manual head. I guess the water is doing the brushing??? Just trying to figure out the best procedure that is correct. Thank you, Lisa

    Reply
    • Amy says

      August 13, 2016 at 11:48 am

      Sorry for the delayed response: I think 1 time per day is great, twice is even better but can get more time consuming… I haven’t seen much with the toothbrush head, I guess I’m not up-to-date with their current model that has that option. I’d give it a try, if it doesn’t feel like it’s doing as much, I’d go back to your regular brush – Be sure to brush half on your gums and half on your teeth in small circular motions (no scrubbing!) 😀

      Reply
  35. John says

    August 2, 2016 at 8:22 am

    How difficult is it to clean behind teeth with the tool? Is there a u-shaped pik?

    Reply
    • Amy says

      August 13, 2016 at 11:45 am

      I think it can be a little daunting – but it’s not terrible! People manage to do it all the time 🙂

      Reply
  36. Angela says

    September 26, 2016 at 12:37 pm

    Does the cordless water pik have tubing that could have mold growing in it? I’m trying to decide which one to buy based on least likely to grow mold.

    Reply
  37. Kirby says

    November 26, 2016 at 3:00 am

    I understand from your article that you highly recommend the WaterPik… And that it is clinically proven to have lots of benefits. Do you know to what extent other less-expensive models do NOT work as well? Because the principle seems to me to be identical: concentrated pulsating jets of water that can deeply clean around the teeth. How much variation can there be in how this is done that would make WaterPik necessarily that much better than other brands? I understand there are other design features like different heads and pressure settings, etc., but at the basic level of using water to blast stuff off your teeth, is there something about WaterPik (other than its exceptional marketing) that suggests it is somehow more capable of doing this than other brands? I am very curious! I KNOW WaterPik is good— do you know if there are others that are NOT good or know ARE ineffective.

    Reply
    • nosnoop says

      January 7, 2017 at 3:42 am

      I have read some of the clinical studies, and the minimum pressure used in those studies was 60psi.
      Waterpik generates up to 90-100psi at its highest settings for countertop models, and up to 75psi for its portable/cordless models. Apart from water pressure, the water flow rate and pulses per minute can also affect its effectiveness.

      So for other brands, you cannot be sure if they have the same pressure, flow rate and pulses frequency; and as a result, the effectiveness seen in clinical studies may or may not apply to that model.

      Reply
    • Nicole says

      February 8, 2017 at 9:31 am

      Shes simple minded and self absorbed…..hence she thinks her very small amount of dental education (which is the bare minimum) makes she knows all about the dental field and everyone should know what she knows…..a little research and some openmindedness is what she needs……….

      Reply
  38. MATT J WATTS says

    December 6, 2016 at 10:52 pm

    I just discovered Black Mold in the wand of my Waterpik Water Flosser. Having has some mild health issues for some time including some tightness in my chest I have been looking high and low for any possible contributions to this finally checking the flosser. The wand took a pliers and box cutter to open so it did not seem like something that was supposed to be cleaned. It is in the trash now.

    Reply
  39. Nicole says

    February 8, 2017 at 9:17 am

    U have dreams about people flocking based on your importance and thats insane…….u talk as if your education on being hygienist is common sense for basic everyday people……your blofs pretty self absorbed lmao………..people like u think common sense is what knowledge u have aquired…..its not…….not touching hot things or messing with things that look dangerous is common sense its a conscience and observation thing…..so if u have useful information like how one mouth wash is more consistant with then share because some people dont know the difference……..its mouth wash is what they think…..and you’re not a doctor so stop writing blofs like this ok…..u dont determine what flossers better til u use ithem all to compare and all u did was make that guy feel selfconscien……..maybe youre a good person that isbt self-absorbed. But ur blog says otherwise and ur not a highly intelligent person because of ur hygenist schooling so get off ur high horse when u walk into that isle you dread so much………..

    Reply
    • Susan says

      February 17, 2017 at 6:42 am

      @ Nicole: you’re a troll – go away

      Reply
    • Sarah says

      December 26, 2017 at 1:31 am

      The manner in which you structure sentences makes you appear to be very uneducated yourself. Bad grammar, crappy punctuation, abbreviations rather than words. You’re a hot mess. Go away, troll.

      Reply
  40. JC Denton says

    April 28, 2017 at 8:10 am

    Here’s the trick to completely cleaning out any mold from your Waterpik: Get two Waterpiks, and use each one to clean out the other by spraying directly into the hole. Works perfectly.

    Reply
  41. BriGuy says

    April 29, 2017 at 9:16 am

    The Showerpik is a nice idea but then I’d only be flossing once a week.

    Reply
  42. TR Hicks says

    May 15, 2017 at 11:34 am

    I have a Waterpik countertop flosser with large reservoir, and I just discovered the mold yesterday when I swapped out for a new brush head! Disgusting!! And I probably wouldn’t have noticed it if I’d kept using the black brush heads, but this time I was taking off a white plastic one and it was coated in the stuff! I’ve had severe drug-resistant ENT problems for two months; I wonder if this is what’s been causing it! I reached as far down into the tube as I could with a Q-tip to clean it, but, like others, it’s the “unseen” that still scares me. Luckily I have a dental cleaning scheduled for today; I’ll be asking. I was going to run a boatload of bleach water through it, but I still don’t know if I can bring myself to use it–and they’re not cheap enough to keep replacing the whole unit. **If you want to know if you have the problem, remove the head from the handle and then stick a cotton swab down in there.**

    Reply
    • Teri says

      June 29, 2018 at 12:11 am

      I would not recommend using bleach,
      Waterpik’s are wonderful and clinically proven to clean your mouth and gums 99% more effective than string floss. There is an app you can try and do the 14 day challenge to try and see immediate results! There is alot of mention of mold in the units, the main cause we see with mold in the units are when the units are not cleaned as recommended in the manual under hard water deposits and cleaning. The units are recommended to be cleaned once a month with white vinegar and warm water, two tablespoons of white vinegar and half of the reservoir tank fill with warm water, then turn on the unit and hold in the sink, and then fill the tank full of warm water and rinse out the unit with the unit on. You want to clean the tips that are used soak in the vinegar and warm water for 20 mins in a bowl. If you have a handle with the unit you want to submerge the while handle in a bowl of vinegar and warm water solution for 20 mins. This gathers any build up that can get in the unit just from daily use, using mouth wash and or additives as well as hard water some areas have. Build up can get on the pump and can completely stop your unit from working, and build up can cause leaking and clogged tips, and even cause cracks in the hose and handle. Additives such as peroxide, baking soda salt Water and essential oils can harm the unit, especially oils, not a good idea we have seen units returned to be looked at by our engineers and it gets into the motor as well and seized up the motors. Mouth wash is okay to use, as long as its cleans monthly and rinsed out with full tank of warm water after flossing.
      Charging units as long as they are not being charged all the time, or let the battery die down completely the unit will last you 4, 5, 6 plus years. The waterpik complete care units with toothbrush and flosser in one, you dont want to keep the toothbrush always in the base, or will be charging all the time and will over charge and stop holding a charge and ruin the battery. You can unplug the flosser when not on use if you want to keep toothbrush in the base, and charge the toothbrush when the battery light is on one line charge it over night then unplug the unit. Cordless units you charge only need once a week for 8 to 12 hours or over night and then unplug the charger. Not all units are able to go into the shower, and there is only a few global models you add an adapter to to use out of the country.

      Reply
  43. zakariya guenda says

    May 18, 2017 at 8:20 pm

    I just discovered Black Mold in the wand of my Waterpik Water Flosser. Having has some mild health issues for some time including some tightness in my chest I have been looking high and low for any possible contributions to this finally checking the flosser. The wand took a pliers and box cutter to open so it did not seem like something that was supposed to be cleaned. It is in the trash now.

    Reply
  44. Peter says

    November 7, 2017 at 2:55 pm

    I just started using a WaterPik (cordless) at the recommendation of my periodontist. Not only can I see the “stuff” falling out of my mouth into the sink, but sometimes, if I skip the night-time water flossing, I can SMELL the stuff coming out of my mouth in the morning water flossing. I can’t believe I’ve been leaving that putrid material in between my teeth and gums all this time. It may stink at the time, but I am comforted in knowing that I have just done a real cleaning.

    Reply
  45. Rich the reporter says

    January 13, 2018 at 8:04 pm

    Thanks, Amy. This is a nicely written entry, helpful to a new Waterpik user. May I point out one small thing, to help you make it perfect, that “isle” is spelled “aisle,” when you’re talking about a store or an airplane aisle. An isle is where you go when you’re on vacation from cleaning teeth. I wish you many such vacations.

    Reply
  46. live22 says

    April 3, 2018 at 12:14 pm

    Thanks designed for sharing such a nice thinking, piece of writing is
    nice, thats why i have read it completely

    Reply
  47. Don S Kurisu says

    May 20, 2018 at 2:29 am

    Please give me your pros and cons of using a water pick. My Periodontist does not recommend me using a water pick. Are there any clinical tests to doubt my Periodontist?

    Reply
  48. Teri says

    June 28, 2018 at 10:35 pm

    Waterpik’s are wonderful and clinically proven to clean your mouth and gums 99% more effective than string floss. There is an app you can try and do the 14 day challenge to try and see immediate results! There is alot of mention of mold in the units, the main cause we see with mold in the units are when the units are not cleaned as recommended in the manual under hard water deposits and cleaning. The units are recommended to be cleaned once a month with white vinegar and warm water, two tablespoons of white vinegar and half of the reservoir tank fill with warm water, then turn on the unit and hold in the sink, and then fill the tank full of warm water and rinse out the unit with the unit on. You want to clean the tips that are used soak in the vinegar and warm water for 20 mins in a bowl. If you have a handle with the unit you want to submerge the while handle in a bowl of vinegar and warm water solution for 20 mins. This gathers any build up that can get in the unit just from daily use, using mouth wash and or additives as well as hard water some areas have. Build up can get on the pump and can completely stop your unit from working, and build up can cause leaking and clogged tips, and even cause cracks in the hose and handle. Additives such as peroxide, baking soda salt Water and essential oils can harm the unit, especially oils, not a good idea we have seen units returned to be looked at by our engineers and it gets into the motor as well and seized up the motors. Mouth wash is okay to use, as long as its cleans monthly and rinsed out with full tank of warm water after flossing.
    Charging units as long as they are not being charged all the time, or let the battery die down completely the unit will last you 4, 5, 6 plus years. The waterpik complete care units with toothbrush and flosser in one, you dont want to keep the toothbrush always in the base, or will be charging all the time and will over charge and stop holding a charge and ruin the battery. You can unplug the flosser when not on use if you want to keep toothbrush in the base, and charge the toothbrush when the battery light is on one line charge it over night then unplug the unit. Cordless units you charge only need once a week for 8 to 12 hours or over night and then unplug the charger. Not all units are able to go into the shower, and there is only a few global models you add an adapter to to use out of the country.

    Reply
  49. Uzie says

    September 3, 2018 at 7:16 pm

    Nothing like a sales pitch

    Reply
  50. Shari Laibl says

    September 21, 2018 at 8:05 pm

    I am on my third Waterpik in as many years. I want to know why they only last for a year. I have tried replacing different parts and they never seem to prolong the life of the Waterpik. Personally, I am now going to try finding another brand. There must be some company out there that will make a water flosser to last more than a year. . . especially for the high prices they charge.

    Reply
  51. kilp says

    November 20, 2018 at 5:27 am

    I had a period of time when I was getting bad ear infections,losing hearing because of too much jammed wax and all the infection. So I had this little ear squeeze bulb filled with this medicinal water mixture. Garlic,olive,clove, some other more traditional sanitizers safe for use I’d have find my recipe to recall.

    The things that came out. Big beans of wax that you could confuse with a stone, fountains of pebbles.

    First time using a water pik was like that. Lots of “stuff” Except (I admit, I don’t floss regularly enough to say I just don’t floss) a good deal of blood also. Bleeding stops in a few weeks though, as does any sensitivity you might have from using it. I like to put a capful of mouthwash (I don’t trust synthetic sweeteners, so I have to find them with xylitol or stevia), maybe some clove or cinnamon oil,powder being preferable in a small amount though it doesn’t disperse well. I’ve had my unit for 2 years and I run more than water through it so it’s been a pretty great buy.

    Reply
  52. https://medium.com/@hibacsy/phong-kham-nam-khoa-o-ha-noi-uy-tin-va-tot-nhat-7d11f21a2661 says

    February 17, 2019 at 11:46 am

    I have been exploring for a little for any high quality articles or blog posts in this sort
    of space . Exploring in Yahoo I eventually stumbled upon this
    site. Reading this info So i’m happy to convey that I have an incredibly excellent uncanny feeling I came upon exactly what I needed.
    I so much indisputably will make sure to do not overlook this web site and give it a glance on a continuing basis.

    Reply
  53. niềng răng mặt trong says

    March 2, 2019 at 4:48 am

    Hi there colleagues, its impressive paragraph on the topic of teachingand completely explained,
    keep it up all the time.

    Reply
  54. new says

    March 2, 2019 at 6:45 am

    Hey there excellent blog! Does running a blog similar to this require a great deal of work?
    I’ve no knowledge of coding but I was hoping to start my
    own blog in the near future. Anyhow, if you have any ideas or techniques for new blog owners please share.
    I understand this is off topic however I just had to
    ask. Many thanks!

    Reply
  55. Dottie Sepich says

    March 7, 2019 at 7:31 am

    the morning fresh air is the best, i have asthma and i love to get some fresh air;

    Reply
  56. Lashaunda Richmeier says

    March 10, 2019 at 3:13 pm

    Thanks for your write-up. What I want to point out is that while looking for a good internet electronics shop, look for a website with comprehensive information on critical indicators such as the personal privacy statement, security details, any payment procedures, and other terms in addition to policies. Constantly take time to look into the help along with FAQ areas to get a far better idea of how a shop functions, what they are capable of doing for you, and just how you can make use of the features.

    Reply
  57. the forest ultimate cheat menu says

    March 14, 2019 at 8:53 am

    You really make it seem really easy with your presentation but I in finding this matter to be really something which I believe I might never understand. It kind of feels too complicated and very large for me. I’m looking forward to your subsequent post, I will try to get the hold of it!

    Reply
  58. free ring of elysium hacks says

    March 14, 2019 at 11:59 pm

    I found your weblog website on google and check a number of of your early posts. Continue to keep up the superb operate. I just additional up your RSS feed to my MSN News Reader. Looking for ahead to studying extra from you in a while!…

    Reply
  59. cheat engine says

    March 15, 2019 at 5:47 am

    Respect to website author , some wonderful entropy.

    Reply
  60. synapse download says

    March 15, 2019 at 5:47 am

    whoah this blog is excellent i love reading your posts. Keep up the great work! You know, many people are searching around for this info, you can help them greatly.

    Reply
  61. battalion 1944 download says

    March 15, 2019 at 10:03 am

    I was wondering if you ever considered changing the layout of your site? Its very well written; I love what youve got to say. But maybe you could a little more in the way of content so people could connect with it better. Youve got an awful lot of text for only having one or 2 images. Maybe you could space it out better?

    Reply
  62. shannon says

    March 15, 2019 at 9:21 pm

    I just got my Waterpik yesterday. At first it was intimidating getting it coordinated and keep from getting water all over the place. Today was much easier and I did get out a lot of gunk. I then brushed my teeth with the sonic toothbrush that came with it. Brushed my tongue with an Oral B tongue brush and rinsed with my mouthwash. Feels so satisfying and my mouth feels better. My cousin has also been a hygienist. But I’m not around her enough to get some tips. I would recommend it for preventing dental problems.

    Reply
  63. Result Nic.in 2019 says

    March 16, 2019 at 6:41 am

    I am pleased that I noticed this site , just the right information that I was searching for! .

    Reply
  64. Resultnic.in2019 says

    March 16, 2019 at 11:49 pm

    I love forgathering useful info, this post has got me even more info!

    Reply
  65. mcent browser points hack script says

    March 20, 2019 at 1:48 am

    I just could not depart your website before suggesting that I really loved the standard information an individual provide to your visitors? Is gonna be again steadily to check up on new posts

    Reply
  66. download matlab 2018 full crack says

    March 20, 2019 at 9:55 pm

    What i don’t understood is actually how you are not actually much more well-liked than you may be right now. You’re so intelligent. You realize therefore considerably relating to this subject, made me personally consider it from a lot of varied angles. Its like women and men aren’t fascinated unless it is one thing to accomplish with Lady gaga! Your own stuffs great. Always maintain it up!

    Reply

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

June 2025
M T W T F S S
 1
2345678
9101112131415
16171819202122
23242526272829
30  
« Apr    

Featured Posts

 
 
 
DHGate
DHGate

Privacy Policy

Cookie Policy

Copyright © 2025 · Darling theme by Restored 316

Copyright © 2025 · Darling Theme on Genesis Framework · WordPress · Log in