Why do some people shine with a white-toothed smile, while others constantly visit the dentist? After all, everyone has been brushing their teeth for many years. And the secret is simple - just follow certain rules of oral care. To maintain the health and beauty of your teeth, you need to regularly brush them with a toothbrush and toothpaste, use floss and rinses. If you wear braces, the orthodontist advises you to get a special v-shaped orthodontic brush, a brush, superfloss, irrigator, and a monotuft brush for hard-to-reach places. And also for the entire period of correcting the bite with braces, pay increased attention to dental hygiene and regularly carry out professional hygiene.
Orthodontist-dentist Nikolaeva Nadezhda Nikolaevna
Why do you need professional teeth cleaning?
Diligent oral care does not exclude the formation of tartar, pigmentation and plaque. Everything that remains on the teeth after hygiene procedures mineralizes over time, forming hard particles. They hold on so tightly that it is not possible to remove them with a thread or brush.
Professional sanitation is carried out using different methods. It is impossible to say for sure which teeth cleaning is better. When choosing a method, the following factors are taken into account:
- oral health;
- the presence of pathological processes;
- contraindications to the use of a particular technique;
- availability of consumables in the clinic.
The importance of the procedure is to prevent the development of the carious process. It is the stone formed on the enamel that damages the bone tissue. This leads to tooth decay. Among other things, the pathology quickly spreads to neighboring units.
Many people are interested in how often to brush their teeth. It is enough to visit the dentist for high-quality oral hygiene twice a year. If you have problems with your gums, it is recommended to make an appointment for cleaning once every 3 months.
What the procedure provides:
- enamel whitening, dark stain removal;
- cleaning from mineralized deposits and dense deposits;
- prevention of caries, inflammatory gum diseases;
- preparation for complex dental treatment (fixed dental prosthetics, implantation, bite correction);
- eliminating unpleasant odor coming from the mouth.
Irrigator Waterpik (Waterpik) –
Waterpick irrigators are developed (USA) and it is one of the most famous brands of irrigators in the world. However, the assembly of the devices is carried out in China. The manufacturer offers a fairly wide range of stationary models, but they all have similar characteristics. The characteristic of the water jet is a monojet with 1400 pulsations per minute, the water pressure is adjustable from 70 to 550-690 kPa (depending on the model). Unfortunately, microbubble technology is not used in Waterpik irrigators.
The flagship model is the Waterpik WP-100 EU Ultra irrigator, the price of which will be about 6,500 rubles. The most expensive model “Waterpik WP-660 EU Ultra Professional” will cost about 8,000 rubles (this model is distinguished by the presence of a second “gum massage” mode, as well as a wider selection of water pressure levels). The model that has the minimum cost is “Waterpik WP-70 EU Classic” from 4,500 rubles, which has fewer nozzles included + only 5 levels of water pressure adjustment.
Examples of Waterpik irrigators and attachments for them -
Let me summarize the pros and cons of Waterpik - 1) these are high-quality devices whose water pressure corresponds to the declared one, 2) a 2-year guarantee, which also confirms the reliability of these devices, 3) a very wide range of attachments for all cases - including periodontal ones for the care of gum pockets, attachment for braces, attachment for bridges, etc.
Disadvantages - the lack of microbubble technology, as well as the lack of a network of service centers in Russia (i.e. if a breakdown occurs during the warranty period, you will have to send the irrigator to Moscow at your own expense, and after some time they will simply send you a new device) . If the breakdown occurs after the expiration of the warranty period, then service is not possible and you will only have to throw away your device, because Apart from replacing attachments and batteries, the devices cannot be repaired.
Types and differences of professional teeth cleaning
There are various ways to clean your mouth professionally. Each option has advantages and disadvantages. The choice of technique is made by the dentist.
Ultrasonic
It is performed using a special device - an ultrasonic scaler. The working element of the device is equipped with a nozzle that performs oscillatory movements at an ultrasound frequency of 25-50 kHz. The effect is enhanced by supplying an antiseptic solution or water through the nozzle. Deposits are removed under the influence of cavitation.
This method does not damage the enamel. When treating the oral cavity with an antiseptic, pathogenic bacteria are destroyed. The effectiveness is so high that it is possible to cope even with supra- and subgingival stones. The patient does not feel pain after brushing his teeth.
Laser
Removal of mineral deposits and plaque from the surfaces of the oral cavity is carried out under the influence of a laser beam. The liquid evaporates from them, as a result of which the destruction process begins. Peeled particles are removed with a stream of water supplied under high pressure.
The cost of the service is higher than alternative methods, due to the use of expensive equipment.
Sandblasting
Cleaning is performed using Air Flow equipment. The device even copes with old deposits. The main condition is that the coating must be soft. Air Flow does not remove tartar. The process of sanitation of the mouth involves the use of a special attachment, a mixture containing a fine abrasive, and a fixing gel. This method is used with caution in cases of increased sensitivity of the gums.
Chemical
The essence of the procedure is to apply a special gel containing hydrogen and acid to the teeth. During aging of the product, hard and soft deposits are destroyed under the influence of chemicals.
The method is painless and effective. But the interdental areas are poorly treated.
Mechanical
Sanitation is carried out using brushes and highly active pastes. This method requires more time than alternative options. But the result is high. However, in the process of mechanical impact with brushes, the risk of damage to the enamel increases. For this reason, specialists rarely resort to such cleaning.
Irrigator Donfeel (Donfil) –
The Russian company Donfeel produces a wide range of irrigators, and we note that they are of fairly high quality, reasonable price and good functionality. The flagship model, the Donfeel OR-800 irrigator, generates a stream of water with pulsations from 1250 to 1700 per minute, and the water pressure is adjustable from 0 to 680 kPa. This device is also distinguished by the presence of 2 operating modes (standard + gum massage), 10 levels of water pressure adjustment, and the kit includes 5 nozzles.
Moreover, this device can also be used to rinse the nose (together with a special nasal tray and a weak saline solution). The warranty is 1 year, and the cost is only about 3800 rubles. This device has only 1 minus - the lack of microbubble technology. But this technology is implemented in another model - the Donfeel OR-840 AIR irrigator. This is an inexpensive and good irrigator at a price of about 3,400 rubles, and what distinguishes it from the flagship model is that it has only 1 standard operating mode, as well as only 5 levels of water pressure adjustment.
Donfeel irrigator models –
Sets of attachments for Donfeel irrigators –
To summarize, Donfil irrigators have been produced for more than 13 years, and during this time they have shown their reliability. In addition, the manufacturer has a wide network of service centers throughout Russia, and provides service even after the warranty period has expired. It is also necessary to say about the wide range of attachments, among which there are standard, periodontal, for cleaning braces, for cleaning the tongue, for implants, as well as special nasal attachments (for rinsing the nose for sinusitis and rhinitis).
Contraindications to the procedure
Like any medical procedure, teeth cleaning in a dental clinic has a number of limitations:
- increased sensitivity;
- the presence of erosion processes on the enamel;
- inflammation of the oral mucosa;
- history of arrhythmia;
- epilepsy;
- acute infectious diseases;
- diabetes;
- bronchial asthma, occurring in severe form;
- chronic rhinitis (including runny nose due to ARVI).
Ultrasound and Air Flow services are available to patients over 14 years of age.
Why is oral hygiene necessary?
The importance of oral hygiene lies in the prevention of major dental diseases, as well as maintaining an attractive appearance of a person. By following the rules for conducting events, you can achieve significant results, including:
- formation of strong teeth;
- destruction of pathogenic microflora;
- prevention of the development of caries and periodontal disease;
- prevention of infectious diseases of the oral cavity and gastrointestinal tract;
- snow-white smile;
- fresh breath;
- savings on dental services.
As medical practice has shown, people with weakened immune systems and smokers are especially in dire need of hygienic care.
Stages of the procedure
Professional sanitation of the oral cavity is carried out in stages.
Stage 1: Comprehensive inspection
It is performed using modern instruments to identify deposits and assess the condition of tissues.
Stage 2: removal of soft and hard formations
To obtain high results, two methods are combined: ultrasonic cleaning and Air Flow. The first option destroys the structure of tartar, the second removes plaque and remaining stone.
Stage 3: Polishing
The enamel is polished using special brushes and paste. The surface is smooth and shiny.
Stage 4: fluoridation
To protect bone tissue, a gel or varnish containing a high concentration of fluoride is used.
How do children brush their teeth?
Ultrasonic cleaning and Air Flow are not prescribed for children under 14 years of age. Professional sanitation of the oral cavity is performed using special brushes and paste. After dental treatment, the surface is coated with fluoride-containing gel to strengthen the enamel.
A few more models outside the rating -
Below we will present several more models of irrigators that you can find in online stores. They are generally good too, some even have a 2-year warranty, but they do not have modern micro-bubble technology, which significantly increases the cleaning power of a regular pulsating stream of water.
a) Irrigator B.Well wi-922 / wi-933 –
You can also see B.Well irrigators on sale. Among the stationary models of this company are 1) the B.Well wi-922 irrigator, as well as the B.Well wi-933 irrigator. The water jet of these models has a pulsation from 1250 to 1800 per minute, the pressure of the water jet is adjustable from 207 to 862 kPa. Their cost is 3500 and 4700 rubles, respectively. They differ in that the second model can work not only from the network, but also from the built-in battery, and it is also distinguished by an 800 ml water tank (all other irrigators have a 600 ml tank). Another couple of advantages are a 2-year warranty and a wide range of attachments. They don't have microbubble technology.
Irrigators B.Well wi-922/ wi-933 –
b) Irrigator Revyline RL-100 –
The Revyline RL 100 irrigator has similar characteristics to the B.Well WI-922 irrigator. The pulsation frequency of the water jet is from 1200 to 1700 per minute, and the level of liquid pressure can be adjusted from 210 to 870 kPa (10 operating modes). 2-year warranty, and a wide range of attachments, including standard, periodontal, for cleaning implants, bridges and braces, as well as tongue cleaning. There is no microbubble technology.
Irrigator Revyline RL-100 –
c) Irrigator Aquajet LD-A8 (Aquajet) –
Another option is the Aquajet irrigator - model Aquajet LD-A8. The pulsation frequency of the water jet is 1200 per minute; it can be noted that the range of liquid pressure levels is not very good - from 290 to 810 kPa. Three options for nozzles, one of which has a thin flexible tip (this can be convenient for safely rinsing periodontal pockets). It should be noted that the device is quite bulky. There is no microbubble technology. Cost from 3500 rubles, warranty – 1 year.
Is it painful to have professional cleaning?
Patients often wonder if it hurts to have their teeth cleaned at the dentist. Regardless of the method used, there is no pain. A feeling of discomfort may occur when removing mineralized formations. In this case, ultrasound is prescribed. Ultrasonic teeth cleaning is also recommended during pregnancy and increased tooth sensitivity.
Portable irrigators for travel –
If you want to save space in the bathroom or be able to take a irrigator with you on a trip, portable models of irrigators are suitable for you, but keep in mind that high-quality portable models are much more expensive than stationary ones. Cheap portable irrigators most often have 1) the water jet pressure does not correspond to the declared one, 2) poor tightness, 3) low service life and non-repairability, 4) lack of microbubble technology.
Another feature that you should pay special attention to is that their water tank is only 140 to 200 ml (for stationary ones, most often 600 ml). This means that you will have to refill the water tank many times during one procedure. You can see how this is done in the photo below. We definitely recognize the Panasonic EW1511 and EW1411 irrigators as the best portable devices.
Portable models of irrigators –
1) Panasonic irrigators –
These irrigators have the richest functionality, microbubble technology (ultrasonic cleaning), as well as a high degree of reliability. The most advanced model is the Panasonic EW1511 irrigator. Main characteristics: water jet pressure from 195 to 647 kPa (5 adjustable power levels), jet pulsation 1600 per minute, 200 ml reservoir - enough for 60 seconds of continuous use (in the highest water pressure mode), 2 nozzles included, 2 guarantee of the year. Cost from 9000 rubles.
Irrigator Panasonic EW1411 – maximum water pressure 590 kPa, 1400 water pulses per minute. The most basic difference between this irrigator is the presence of 4 operating modes - 1) pulse mode with a jet pressure of 590 kPa, 2) continuous jet mode without pulses with a pressure of 590 kPa, 3) “normal” air mode - with a pressure of 390 kPa, pulsed water supply and air microbubbles, 4) soft air mode - with a pressure of 200 kPa, pulsed water supply and air microbubbles. Cost from 8000 rubles.
2) Irrigators Oral-B Aquacare Pro-Expert 4/6 –
Above, we spoke quite highly of the Oral-B stationary irrigator - the Oral-b OxyJet model, and indeed it is an excellent oral irrigator. Portable irrigators of this or “Oral-B Aquacare Pro-Expert 6” are also available with microbubble technology and pulsed water supply (1400 pulses per minute). But we cannot recommend them for purchase, and the point here is the rather low water pressure! Moreover, the water pressure becomes higher if you use this irrigator with the lid slightly open to fill the water tank, which is really not very convenient.
Of course, this indicates an engineering error (when the pump operates, something close to a “vacuum” is created in the water tank), and therefore the pump pumps water slowly. Those. In order for the water pump to pump at a level of 500-600 kPa, there must be a small technical hole in the upper part of the tank to draw in a volume of air equal to the volume of water used. In general, all this indicates an engineering mistake by the manufacturer. And you’d better turn your attention to portable irrigators from other companies, or purchase its stationary version.
3) Irrigator “CS Medica AquaPulsar CS-3 Air+”
Another device with microbubble technology is the CS Medica AquaPulsar CS-3 Air+ portable irrigator. Characteristics: maximum jet pressure 590 kPa, pulse frequency 2000 per minute, tank volume 130 ml. The set includes 4 attachments, including standard, periodontal, for braces and for sensitive gums. In principle, this is a very interesting irrigator at a price of about 3,500 rubles, and in its functionality (operating modes) it is somewhat reminiscent of Panasonic.
So, this irrigator has 3 operating modes: 1) Intensive mode - with a jet pressure of 590 kPa, pulsed water supply, without microbubbles, 2) NORMAL Air mode - with a jet pressure of 390 kPa, pulsed water supply and air microbubbles, 3) SOFT mode Air – with a pressure of 200 kPa, pulsed water supply and air microbubbles.
Conclusions: In general, the choice of portable irrigators with ultrasonic (microbubble) technology is limited to just a few manufacturers. Most other manufacturers produce portable irrigators with only regular pulse water supply, which is certainly not optimal. It’s better not to buy portable devices that are cheap in terms of functionality, such as the Xiaomi Soocas W3 irrigator, although on the other hand, even such models are still better than nothing at all.
Selection of toothpaste
You need to select the paste based on your needs. It is better to take the advice of a dentist.
- If you have bad breath, you need to choose a refreshing one.
- If the gums are bleeding excessively, use anti-inflammatory.
- With a yellowish tint to the enamel - with a whitening effect.
- It’s good if the paste contains fluoride. Such compositions act as strengthening enamel, reduce tooth sensitivity and gum inflammation, and whiten.
- Whitening toothpastes can be used, but not constantly, since they, along with the unsightly plaque, also erase the enamel. Such products contribute to the development of caries.
- Teeth may have naturally yellowish enamel. Doctors believe that such enamel is more successful in resisting caries.
- Those who want to have snow-white teeth should consult a dentist to find a method suitable for their particular case.
