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