Water irrigating devices for the orthodontic patient.

Abstract

Fixed orthodontic appliances increase the number of retention areas, resulting in increased possibilities for the accumulation of dental plaque. In addition, there is a risk of direct mechanical irritation. In spite of good toothcleaning most orthodontic patients develop generalized moderate gingivitis or an edematous type within one to two months after the placement of the fixed orthodontic appliances. Since the gingival changes represent a reaction to the bacterial plaque products rather than to the orthodontic forces; the only way to control them is by effective oral hygiene. Braces and banded teeth have many tiny recesses that a toothbrush and other cleaning aids have difficulty reaching. For good oral hygiene, these should be kept free of food debris. Water irrigating devices irrigates these hard-to-clean areas to remove food and other debris. Pulsating jets of water very gently lift the free gingiva to rinse out crevices. The water irrigator also pulses into areas between teeth and gums to flush out trapped food and debris. Water irrigating devices cannot by any means be regarded as substitutes for more effective plaque-removing methods, such as tooth-brushing and flossing; rather, they should be considered as an adjunct to the total oral hygiene program.