An oral irrigator handle through which fluid flows to a tip is described. Fluid flows from a fluidically connected hose to the tip during irrigate mode, and fluid flow may be interrupted by selecting a pause mode. The handle includes a mechanically controlled actuator for selecting the pause mode. The actuator may be operably connected to a shuttle valve that is positioned to block fluid flow to the tip during pause mode but not during irrigate mode. The handle may also include a swivel assembly. The swivel assembly prevents rotational movement of either the handle or the hose from being transmitted to the other, such that rotation of the handle will not affect the position of the hose.