History
- First oral irrigator developed by Dr. C.D. Matteson in the 1950s as an alternative to hand syringes
- Waterpik invented in 1962 by dentist Gerald Moyer and engineer John Mattingly
- Waterpik featured built-in reservoir and motor for rhythmic pulses of water
- Waterpik now sold by Water Pik, Inc.

Efficacy
- Oral irrigators evaluated in scientific studies for periodontal maintenance and various conditions
- 2008 systematic review found improvement in gingival health with irrigation compared to regular oral hygiene
- 2019 meta-analysis found water-jet irrigation more effective at reducing bleeding on probing than flossing
- Oral irrigators also used to remove tonsil stones
- Oral irrigators ideal for narrow teeth or hard-to-reach areas between teeth

Other uses
- Oral irrigators used to remove tonsil stones (tonsiloliths)

Mode of operation
- Most oral irrigators use a single stream of water to flush unwanted material between teeth
- Oral irrigators ideal for narrow teeth or hard-to-reach areas
- Some devices offer gum massage and injection of mouthwash solution

Criticism
- Oral irrigators classified as wellness products, not a replacement for brushing and flossing
- Risk of food debris entering tooth pockets and causing damage with improper use
- Many dentists advise against usage for people with gum disease or tooth extraction
- Some studies show oral irrigators better at removing plaque than flossing