The dental health aisle at most drug stores and supermarkets is big. There can be dozens of kinds of products, and every type of product is offered in a variety of options. How can you choose? A lot of what dental products you use is down to personal preference and testing things until you find something you like. For each category of hygiene product, however, there are a few things to look out for.
Toothbrushes
The biggest thing to look for with a toothbrush is bristle type. You may be tempted to choose stiffer bristles for a better clean. In fact, stiff bristles can cause gum recession. A soft-bristled brush will be plenty to get your teeth clean while also being gentle on gums and enamel. The big debate comes down to electric versus traditional manual toothbrushes. For the most part this is personal preference. An electric toothbrush can be easier to use, making it a good option for people with mobility impairments, but there is little evidence to suggest that an electric toothbrush will get your teeth cleaner.
Toothpaste
When shopping for toothpaste, look for the American Dental Association’s seal of approval. This means that the product has been supported by a major medical body. The most important factor in any toothpaste is fluoride. Make sure whatever you choose has at least 1000ppm fluoride. Fluoride is a salt that reduces tooth decay.
Floss
What floss you choose depends on tooth spacing. Depending on whether your teeth are loose or compact, certain flosses might be either ineffective or uncomfortable. If you have tight-set teeth, choose a thin floss. For wider-set teeth, choose a thicker floss. Patients with gaps between teeth may prefer an even wider dental tape for the best results.
Mouthwash
Fluoride is important when it comes to mouthwash as well. When shopping for mouthwash, you should also make sure to choose one with an alcohol base. The alcohol is an antiseptic that will kill the bacteria that cause tooth decay. This is the great benefit of mouthwash: it can reach every crevice of your mouth for the most thorough clean.
Schedule an Appointment
Do you want advice on what dental products to choose, or feedback on the results of your home dental routine? Schedule an appointment with Dr. Joseph Cheung at Sudbury Dental Arts in Sudbury, MA. To schedule, contact us online or at (978) 218-2580.
