Vanna White killed the waterpik
A thought occurred to me as I was showering this morning. Remember in the 80s when Vanna White said to open your mouth in the shower and let the spray work like a water pick? I’ve never done that but it got me thinking, What ever happened to the water pick? And more importantly, Did Vanna White’s offhanded, seemingly benign comment kill the waterpik?
I tried to research the exact source of the quote. Apparently, she wrote it in her book. A quick author search on Amazon.com revealed that Vanna White has authored eighteen books—eighteen!
Anyway. Growing up, my family had one of these little gizmos. (My mother was great at being hip and getting all the latest gadgets.) We each had our own little water pick head—each with a different colored ring. It was fun to fill the water reservoir and listen to the noisy motor as little pulses of water shot through the tiny hose from the head into your mouth.
The fascination as short-lived, however, and I only used the thing two or three times. Before long the contraption began to gather dust and was stowed in the cupboard below the sink to make way for the next great thing. (I can’t remember now what that was. Maybe a handheld massager or a microwave?)
Looking back, I wonder, What was the point? I mean seriously, a water pick? Was oral irrigation (industry term) meant to replace good old fashioned oral hygiene? Was this the miracle invention that was going to save us all from daunting and painful task of flossing? I don’t know the effectiveness of oral irrigation verses traditional flossing and I’m not about to do the research to find out. One thing is for sure, neither are effective if you don’t do it. Regardless, who needs a $50 Waterpik when you can open your mouth in the shower and let the spray work like a water pick? Thanks for the tip, Vanna!
Later this morning, another thought occurred to me, Maybe if I showered more often I’d have a better blog.
5 Comments to “Vanna White killed the waterpik”
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Ooh, you’ve totally reminded me of a rant about toothbrush commercials that I’ve been meaning to write.
I used a waterpik for a while – it was passed down from my dad, and was much older than the version you’re showing. I think it was tan and brown, and was probably not sanitary. I suppose it was touted as an alternative to splicing waxed twine and rubbing that in between your teeth…
I’m just glad you’re blogging again.
I tried to find a picture like the one that we used to have with no luck. Ours was tan too and super gross!
It’s nice to have a fan. Thanks Abe!
Phew! Welcome back, Nikhita! I could go for some oral irrigation right about now…