Biofilm Removal with a Dental Water Jet
Objective
To evaluate the effect of the Waterpik™ Water Flosser on plaque biofilm removal using scanning electron microscopy (SEM).
Methodology
Eight periodontally involved teeth were extracted. Ten slices were prepared from four teeth, inoculated with saliva, and left for four days to allow plaque biofilm growth.
Four slices were treated with the Classic Jet Tip, four slices with the Orthodontic Tip, and two slices were used as controls.
The remaining four teeth were treated with the Orthodontic Tip to assess the removal of calcified plaque biofilm.
All samples were treated at medium pressure for three seconds and subsequently evaluated using SEM.
Results
The Classic Jet Tip removed 99.9% and the Orthodontic Tip 99.8% of plaque biofilm from treated areas after a three-second exposure, as confirmed by SEM.
The Orthodontic Tip also significantly removed calcified biofilm from tooth surfaces, as observed both visually and under SEM.
Conclusion
The Waterpik Water Flosser effectively and rapidly removes plaque biofilm, demonstrating significant cleaning power even with a brief three-second application.