I got my new WaterPik Aquarius Model 660 Water Flosser in the mail yesterday.  I’ve never used one and I’m excited.  I’m a freak about clean teeth and a healthy mouth.  I have a Phillips Sonicare electric toothbrush and also an Oral-B electric toothbrush which I use interchangeably. I found myself using the sonic one less often since it’s very intense. I wasn’t sure the Oral-B could do the job on its own, so I bought the water flosser to make sure I’m covered.  I’m lucky in that I have my own teeth and know that with proper care, it’s possible for them to last me the rest of my life.  I was excited to try my Waterpik! I read the instructions first, filling the tank and turning the pressure to high before plugging in and turning on, so I could prime the unit.  Perfect!  Then I began to use it.   How hard can it be?  Note to self: (1) turn the pressure way down until I get used to it. (2) if I want to watch myself use it, bring a mirror into the shower so the splatter won’t matter.  (3) easiest is leaning over the sink, letting water drain out of my mouth as I use it with my head tilted sideways.

The first time, the pressure was still turned on high from when I primed it. I faced the mirror smiling and aimed the Waterpik facing into my mouth.  I turned it on and got face splashed and it splashed all over the counter and sink before I could turn it off and read online how not to get soaked. The answer was: By turning down the pressure until I got the hang of it. By not watching myself use it.  By keeping my mouth leaned over and letting the water drain out.  Each tank hold about 90 seconds worth of water — enough for one session.

I see now why friends have the portable one, to take into the shower or use anywhere.  Heck, I could use it outside!  I’ve used it three times in 12 hours.  My mouth feels so clean.  Bonus? When my mouth is that clean, I don’t want to eat anything except high water content foods!

Why get your teeth cleaned? If you grow plaque in your mouth, you grow it in your body
What Bernie Siegel had to say when asked about dental placque and heart health