The Effect of an Oral Irrigation Device with Water Flow Containing Cavitation Air Bubbles

Abstract

 Purpose: To prevent caries and periodontal diseases, daily plaque control is important, and so toothbrushes are used for removing plaque and oral irrigators for removing oral debris with water flow. To improve the performance of the oral irrigator for debris removal, we performed an in vitro study using artificial plaque on the debris-removal effects of water flow discharged from a nozzle that generates cavitation air bubbles. In addition, for clinical application, the safety of the oral irrigator, which discharges water flow containing cavitation air bubbles, and its usefulness and safety for improving the health of periodontal tissue were evaluated.

 Results: Compared with water flow not containing cavitation bubbles discharged from the conventional nozzle, that containing cavitation bubbles discharged from a cavitation nozzle significantly removed artificial plaque. In addition, for clinical application, the oral irrigator had no adverse effects on the oral cavity, and may be useful for improving the periodontal tissue in gingival sulci and periodontal pockets with water flow containing cavitation air bubbles.

 Conclusion: Oral cleansing with water flow containing cavitation air bubbles is useful for daily oral plaque control.