New clinical study demonstrates Waterpik Dental Water Jet is an effective alternative to traditional floss for non-compliant patients
It has been documented that two-thirds of Americans do not floss regularly and only about 22 percent can demonstrate correct technique.(1) Based on this, dentists and hygienists have repeatedly asked if the Waterpik® Dental Water Jet is a good alternative for non-compliant patients. They understood the need to look for alternatives to flossing for those individuals who will not or cannot floss. Now, for those non-compliant individuals, a new clinical study from the University of Nebraska(2) has determined that there is an effective alternative to traditional flossing — the Waterpik Dental Water Jet.
About the clinical study
Conducted in 2005, the single-blind, controlled, 28 day clinical trial included 105 subjects randomly assigned to one of three groups:
• Group 1: manual toothbrush and floss
• Group 2: manual toothbrush and Waterpik Dental Water Jet
• Group 3: sonic toothbrush and Waterpik Dental Water Jet
Subjects were asked to brush for a timed two minutes, twice per day. In the evening, subjects used either a Waterpik Dental Water Jet or dental floss. Written and verbal instructions were given and the subjects were told to refrain from using any additional oral hygiene aids. Data was collected by two calibrated examiners at baseline, 14 days, and 28 days.
Study results demonstrated that when combined with toothbrushing, the Waterpik Dental Water Jet is an effective alternative to traditional dental floss for reducing bleeding, gingival inflammation, and plaque. The addition of the Waterpik Dental Water Jet provided superior results for gum bleeding and gingivitis reduction. Specifically, manual toothbrushing plus the Waterpik Dental Water Jet was over 93 percent more effective at reducing bleeding on the facial surfaces and 50 percent better at reducing gingivitis compared to brushing and flossing on the facial and lingual surfaces at day 28.
Waterpik Dental Water Jets
The Waterpik Dental Water Jet delivers a unique combination of water pressure (1,200 pulsations per minute) and pulsation (55 to 90 pounds per square inch) to reach interproximally and subgingivally. It has been tested for safety and efficacy in over 45 clinical studies demonstrating significant reduction in one or more of the following: bleeding, gingivitis, subgingival pathogenic bacteria, and inflammatory mediators. Likewise, it has been tested on individuals with special considerations including implants, crown and bridge, orthodontic appliances, diabetes, and those in periodontal maintenance.
Patient Education Brochure
The Waterpik Dental Water Jet can benefit all patients even those with good oral hygiene. New complimentary patient education brochures are now available and include a $5 rebate. To order simply, go to www.professional.waterpik.com,/a> and fill out the form.
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