Water pik instructional video from Dr. Paul Rubin 

I gotta say, as someone who is TERRIFIED of the dentist, I found this video IMMENSELY helpful! I only found it because I was googling additives for my Waterpik-like machine, to improve my gum health. I'm so glad I found it! Thank you for all you do! 😬

Every dental office should show this video to their patients. I am so grateful that it came across my RU-vid feed. 🙏🏼❤️

One of the most informative videos I have seen on oral care.

Flossing is still a good idea. The Water Pik is more effective at reaching plaque under the gum line to help prevent or treat gum disease. Flossing is still more effective at removing plaque between the teeth, above the gum line, where cavities may start. If your main concern is periodontal (gum) health, and you want to choose one or the other, choose to Water Pik.

This is the best video on RU-vid.

This was more instruction and clearer than my hygienist provided. Thank you!

I haven't seen such health benefitial video on YT in years ...

Nice vid Paul and I especially like the clarity of your bug samples and instructions. One more shot you could throw in near the end is how different the bug sample look after you've cleaned them out. Night vs. Day

i bought my WP-660 on 12.10.2017. Now we have 28.11.2019 I asked my Self "Why didnt you invested in smthin like this before!!??" Its one of my best Invests! i love my WaterPik!

Thank you very much for your clear, coherent, and detailed explanation and instruction of the Water Pik!

I am addicted to my water pik! I love how it makes my mouth feel after and what benefits I get from it.. Most importantly, when I use it a night after dinner, it keeps me from eating anything afterward, because my teeth look and feel so clean and healthy

Thanks Dr. Rubin for an excellent discussion of irrigation the how and why.

*TESTIMONIAL!!* 🎉🎉 Thank you SO much for this!! I bought the *Aquarius WaterPik,* as suggested, and am using the *Pik Pocket* tip. I also bought the *Under the Gum Irrigant,* and I use 1.5 teaspoons per 22 oz tank of water. I also bought *Grapefruit Seed Extract (GSE),* and I use five to ten drops per 22 oz tank of water, as I saw you advise in a comment. I wasn’t using my Sonicare correctly (an expert said to angle at 90 degrees, but that’s incorrect), and I was always used to going a long time between cleanings with no issues, but when I went back recently (April 2022), I wound up having several 4 & 5 gum pockets. They *scaled my teeth/gums,* and the next day, I researched and found this video, as well as brushing teeth with soap, which can also really help (I started on Dr. Bronner’s bar soap). For one month, I brushed with soap twice a day (angling my Sonicare towards my gums at a 45 degree angle and using circular movements), and I used the “Under the Gums” Irrigant with my WaterPik once a day for 5 minutes. *After one month, my dental hygienist found that nearly all my pockets were reversing!* Several 5s went down to 4s or ever lower, and I only had two 5s left. I expect to reverse those as well! And my hygienist originally told me the 5s would be irreversible. Ha! Holistic treatments usually find a way. :) Anyway, I’m thrilled!! Thank you so, sooo much for this invaluable video!! I’m starting Invisalign soon, and I feel like your video will help ensure it goes well. Many blessings to you! 🙏🏻 *UPDATE* (3 months later in August 2022) I went in for another cleaning, and I now only have ONE level 5 gum pocket left!! Most are now 2s & 3s!! This is working SO WELL!!! 🙌🏻 Between now and my last visit above, ALL I do is this: * 10 drops GSE in the tank. 5 minutes daily. * Brush teeth at night with Dr. Bronner’s bar soap. In the morning, I floss, use the WaterPik, then brush for two minutes with a non-fluoride toothpaste. I even skipped several mornings during this time using the WaterPik. * Sometimes (I’ve mostly been forgetting to do this, so not often at all) I swish my mouth with a very mild iodine solution, or hydrogen peroxide.

Great video, the best most educative and methodical. Your knowledge is very appreciated.

Thank you for this excellent video. My dental hygienist told me it would be a good idea to get a Water Pik and that RU-vid had some excellent videos for its use. This was a wonderful source. Thanks.

This video is so helpful. Thank you! The long demonstration helps me get a sense of what the rhythm of the process should feel like - helps slow down my tendency to do it too quickly.

Water PIK , quality electric tooth brush and Arm and Hammer tooth paste will make a HUGE difference. Frequency and use of mouthwash is also helpful...

Love the monotone dialogue! Thank you for the insight

This was so extremely helpful. Thank you Dr. Rubin!

Thank you for your comment. I appreciate that this little project has had some “legs”.

Thank you for sharing; this has been the BEST instructional video for the usage of a water pik

Thank You for this video. I bought a Water Pik a couple of years ago and have just been admiring it, but not using it. On my last cleaning, Helen asked me if I was using the Pik because she noticed some plaque that a Water Pik could help. I had to admit to her I was not using the Pik. With her encouragement I went right home and plugged it in and have been putting it to use. My gums feel and look healthier. Thank you for encouraging me. Sincerely, Marcia

Well, thx Doc...I'm convinced! Just got my 1st one today - many years too late, but can only help starting now, eh? :)

Sonicare is a good product, and I do recommend it a lot. However, where there are already deeper periodontal pockets (and/or a very active microscope slide as shown on the video) the Sonicare alone is not adequate to effectively remove bacterial plaque that is below the gumline. Sonicare plus Water Pik is a great combination.

Excellent explanation, very clear and understandable..... I will buy a Waterpik tomorrow December 2019, I've never had teeth or gum problems, ever!. I've seen my Dentist 2x a yr for the last 59years, a Waterpik is the best way to go, and I still have all my 28teeth - 4wisdom teeth, Never a cavity...... I'm sold. Count me in to better health. Thx Doc!!!!!!!!

Don’t expect baking soda to be highly effective at killing bacteria. Mainly it creates an alkaline environment that discourages bacterial growth. The mechanical flushing action of the water stream removes the bacteria from the pockets, the baking soda leaves behind a more alkaline environment that suppresses bacterial growth. As described in the video, about 1-2 Tbsp baking soda in one tank, very thoroughly dissolved.

I dental floss with TEA TREE on my floss. I have perfect gums and no cavities for decades. Including a wisdom tooth that has always had a deep pocket due to half grown but some under gum.

Most excellent and succinct! Better than the videos shown in Dentist offices even today.

Such a soothing and effective video! Thanks for making this

Very nicely done instructional video. Love the calm soothing voice! Thank you

Rick, for people without gum disease, I would still recommend using it as taught, but you probably don’t need to use it as often, and you may be fine using with just plain water (without additives).

There may be some variations with different units, but with the pick pocket tip it’s easy to go too strong. If it stings or hurts anywhere, it’s too strong. Typically you’re going to be in the 2-3 range.

Absolutely superb instructional video for which I thank you. I ordered my Water Pik last night, and I am feeling much more confident about using it after watching your brilliant piece of work.

Dear Dr. Paul Rubin, I wish I could have a dentist like you. Given that you are knowledgeable and informative. You see , I have root canal and I have lots of swelling in my gums around it. I asked my dentist and she said I wasnt flossing well enough, and I also mentioned I use the water pik but she said that it really didnt help and that manual flossing was the way to go. I've been using my my waterpik religiously but I wasnt aware that this was the pik that I needed. I had no clue. I am now so ready to put the technique to practice and hopefully the swelling will go down. Thank you , thank you , thank you. THIS IS THE MOST INFORMATIVE VIDEO I HAVE SEEN CONCERNING THIS SUBJECT. GOD BLESS YOU!

Yes, you can use povidone iodine (available at most drug stores), diluted about 50% with water. Make sure you don’t have an iodine allergy, and be careful about spilling or spattering since this will stain! Also, as with other products, always rinse out your tank and run some clear water through the tubing for about 30 seconds.

These are all very good comments. Thanks for your contribution.

This is an exciting watch. First we see live, moving bacteria. Very motivating. Then I learned that the water tank can be removed from the base! Game changer. The swipe away of other parts besides the tip. Funny and dramatic. Suggested tonics/antimicrobials: 7.25 a good start and honestly why I came here. Talking about settings and how it feels and going slow was helpful for me. How does this helpful video end? With how to clean it! The other reason I am here. Thank you! Exactly what I was looking for. 🥰

Thank you for showing all the detail instruction how to use it and causing bacteria from plaque excellent video..

This is an excellent video! Thank you so much!

Excellent and informative scientific video. This has helped me decide to get a water flosser.

Thank you for your straightforward tutorial. I am considering getting one.

Thank you so much for this video, great information and well presented. I gained a good deal of insight watching and I am sure it will help to improve my dental health.

Wonderful invention. I highly recommend it.

Great informative video. I was recently suggested this by my hygienist as I have deep pockets and really need to aid my gums back to health. Thank you for your wisdom and tips.

What matters most is that you do it when you’re not in a hurry and can spend a full five minutes or so mindfully. Ideally that might be after brushing and flossing, but that’s often not practical the way many people structure their day. So whatever works, as long as you do it!

What a great video! Well done!

Excellent. Didn’t know about the correct tip’s effectiveness 👍. Thank you !

Great instructional video!!!

This was excellent. I just purchased this equipment and this truly helped me. Thank you so much!

VERY comprehensive video on proper dental maintenance and the reason WHY. If you are here specifically to better understand how to use the water pik, this segment begins at 5:38

Thank you so much for such an informative video!

Such a helpful video! Thank you!

Thank you for posting this video.

Thanks for uploading this, very informative. I was told just to add salt to the unit.

I recently purchased this. Good tutorial.

Thank you for this great video!

Thank you, Aaron!

Very informative and well put together video.

Thank you!!! So appreciated.

I’ve replied on similar questions before. Take a look at some previous posts. It’s hard to know how effective such products might be, without testing them clinically. Also unknown how they may affect the tubing and parts of the device. The main effect comes from the pulsing jet dislodging the plaque when used correctly. The recommended products are helpful but secondary.

thank you doctor very clear and insightful

The pulsing jet of the water with this technique is probably 90% of the effectiveness. Salt water is ok, but dissolved baking soda has a better alkalizing and antibacterial effect.

amazing video … thank you!

Very well done, thanks!

Thanks, for your instructional video. I would like to add additional info about using the Waterpik. Your comments would be appreciated. Maintenance and Use of The Waterpik (12-2018 ) Note: Follow the instructions before first using the Waterpik. 1. It is recommended that you plug the unit into a GFCI protected receptacle to prevent electrical shock. 2. Warm water is recommended. Water from your water heater may be contaminated. Use filtered water that is at room temperature. Do not add anything else but water to the water tank. 3. The Classic Jet Tip is effective for general use. The Pik Pocket Tip is more effective and is recommended at the 1 - 3 settings. 4. Just before using the Waterpik, point the tip in the sink, turn ON the unit and let water flow into sink, to get rid of existing water, then, rinse the handle and tip under water. 5. Do not run the unit with no water in the water tank. 6. The Waterpik can be used before brushing your teeth or after. String flossing is recommended. 7. After using the Waterpik: a. Rinse the handle and tip under water. b. Remove the tip and store it in a dry location, such as, behind the water tank. c. Remove the water tank and turn upside down to air dry. d. Push the button on handle to ON and lower the handle and hose below the unit and allow the remaining water to flow out. Use a container to catch the water. e. Store the handle inverted in its’ storage case. f. Unplug the unit from the electrical receptacle. 8. It is recommended that ONLY one person use the Waterpik. ( Tell children to NOT use the Waterpik unsupervised. )

Thank you for being clear and precise in how to use the Pik for pocket infection. I was not told about the irrigation technique. I was offered tooth extraction or perio surgery to clean up a pocket infection. I asked about alternatives, and the word irrigation was mumbled. I tried a 10 cc irrigation syringe, but it's difficult at best. I am putting off a perio consultation for a few weeks, to allow any healing to occur by using the pik pocket tip with baking soda or iodine twice a day. I hope to keep all my teeth. I used to use the waterpik, but switched to dental floss many years ago, as it did a better job cleaning my teeth. Now I have a new machine and will add it to my dental routine. For everyone reading this, I HOPE YOU ALL KEEP YOUR TEETH A LONG TIME.

AWESOME VIDEO!!!! Thanks!

Keep the tip just a little away from the tissue

Just bought your e-book, very helpful video. I've been using a Waterpik for a couple years now, but not one with the tank and not one with this tip. First I'm seeing or hearing of it. I'm going to pick up some replacement tips today. I've been alternating with 1/4C natural baking soda to 4 C reverse osmosis water and 1/4C food grade peroxide and the same water this whole time as well. Have a 6 month cleaning coming up in March and I'm very interested in the results. Appreciate the videos and am still trying to figure out how to interpret the cone beam xray I got on the flash drive from the dentist after the initial consultation.

okay i absolutely had to order one

Thank you Dr. Marder for sharing this with me. I'm excited to share this information for my clients who are working hard to heal from autoimmune and chronic health concerns!

The other tips may be useful for things like cleaning around braces, but that’s not the purpose of this video. For periodontal health, the Pik Pocket tip, as described, is the only one I recommend.

In our office, we most frequently use a product called Tooth Tonic Plus, or one from the Dental Herb Company called Under the Gum Irrigant. Since both are difficulty to obtain outside of a dental office, you can use Grapefruit Seed Extract (a few drops), goldenseal tincture, or baking soda as described in the video.

Thank you so much I just got this as a present ! Thought i check youtube :D

Sure. So I are plus Water Pik is a great combination.

You may be using a different model, which may mean your unit won’t be as effective. Compare yours to the one you see in the video. There should be a dial that adjusts water flow pressure, and you must be using the “Pik Pocket” tip

Would the classic jet tip be ok to use

All “additives” that I’ve described have some potential for long term wear and tear on the unit. Rinsing clear water through the unit after every use (as described) will usually avoid this and prolong the life of the unit.

how long would it take to use the flosser for a 6 year old to be effective?

Excellent video.

Any of the substances mentioned in the video will work well, though the "Tooth Tonic Plus" is not easy to find.

Good question. You can get a lot of benefits from plain water. Adding a little baking soda as described in the video is even better. It has an alkalizing and antibacterial effect. We use the other solutions in our office, but we have the advantage of using our microscope (which few offices have) to monitor the success and can recommend solutions accordingly.

Tooth Tonic Plus is only available professionally right now, but you can order Under the Gum Irrigant online from Dental Herb Company.

The Under the Gum tonic only needs about 1/4 to 1/2 capful per tank. On a related subject of "quantity", when using toothpaste only apply a small pea-sized drop to the brush instead of the long stripe that the commercials always show. That is an excessive amount of toothpaste and can contribute to excessive wear and erosion on the teeth.

I didn’t see any pressure settings . I am using for cleaning after deep root scaling and want to keep clean but not disrupt the healing process.

This is very useful. I've been using the normal tip but will swap it out for the pikpocket tip now. Too bad only one comes with the machine. I'd have to order a few more after this one.

Is using baking soda just as good as anything. About a half teaspoon mixed in Luke warm water?

Can you use a squirt of Lugols and that be sufficient to kill the bacteria?

I would say that subgingival irrigation, as taught on the video, does a better job with respect to periodontal health. However, for decay prevention, especially areas where adjacent teeth contact, flossing works best. Sorry! Using both is ideal.

Great informative video.

Doc quick question. Will salt and water mix be effective as well?

I don’t have any experience using oregano for this application. I understand many beneficial uses for oregano oil, but without seeing firsthand results (through microscope testing), I don’t know how effective it will be or what concentration you’d need to use. I also don’t know how fast it will degrade the tubing and parts of the WaterPik.

Thanks, i'm french and there is not lot of demonstration's movies for water floss in my country...

I started using irrigator because I always hurt my gum while flossing. This technique is interesting as I found recommended 90 degrees angle with normal ending rising power gradually to the maximum over months

Dear Patrick, As I stated in the video, the Pik Pocket tip is the only tip I recommend. It is the only one that effectively flushes plaque from under the gumline, and does it safely when used as I have instructed. The larger tip may flush out food debris, but does not remove subginigival plaque very well. Use it if you like it, but the Pik Pocket is the one that's doing you more good. With it, the aim is not to see how far up you can turn the power. Every mouth is different and every WaterPik unit may be slightly different. Most of my patients do well with the power at a 2 or 3. I wouldn't advise going above a four. With this technique, more is not necessarily better.

Great video, very clear and informative. Do you have to add the antimicrobial ingredient or can you just use plain water? I'm asking, because my dentist didn't mention a specific solution.

Where do u buy d products that u drop in d water?

Thanks for that!

Definitely!

THANK YOU !