Learn About Different Tooth Cleaning Aids

Learn About Different Tooth Cleaning Aids

Learn About Different Tooth Cleaning Aids

We are long past the time of using just a toothbrush and toothpaste at home to keep your teeth clean. Now, on the market, there are products geared to help clean anything from braces to dental implants. It is essential to make sure you choose the correct products to optimize your oral health and clean adequately between dental visits. Below is a list of several common products and what to use them for:

Toothbrush

Everybody has used a toothbrush, as it’s an essential tool to keep your teeth clean. Tooth brushing is recommended for everyone with one or more teeth, at least twice a day for 2 minutes. Toothbrushes can be split into two categories, manual and electric. Manual toothbrushes come in super soft, soft, medium and hard. Super soft toothbrushes are great for people with recession to preserve the gum line. Soft toothbrushes are most commonly recommended. Medium and hard toothbrushes are generally thought to be too abrasive on the gums and are rarely recommended. Electric toothbrushes either oscillate or sweep back and forth depending on the brand and are a beneficial alternative.

Toothpaste

The most crucial factor in choosing a toothpaste is the inclusion of fluoride in the ingredient list. Fluoride is an ingredient that prevents and halts cavities. Most toothpaste will include fluoride unless otherwise stated. Toothpaste can be geared toward antiplaque, gum health and even stain fighting. Talk with your dentist or dental hygienist about what toothpaste is recommended for you.

dental floss cleaning aid

Dental Floss

Dental floss is used to clean the in-between surfaces of teeth. Dental floss is sold as waxed or non-waxed. Waxed dental floss is ideal for tight contacts and areas where the floss may shred. Flossing is recommended at least once a day. Floss on a handle is a great alternative for children or patients will low dexterity.

Mouth Rinse

It is essential to select a mouth rinse with active ingredients. Some mouth rinses contain essential oils to reduce bacteria on gums, teeth, tongue and cheeks. Mouth rinses can be geared for anticavity, antiplaque or even whitening.

Interdental Brush

Interdental brushes are adjunct brushes used to access difficult areas of the mouth. They are often recommended for patients with braces to access between the brackets, as well as for in between teeth that have larger spaces and are susceptible to food impaction.

Tongue Scraper

A tongue scraper is meant for reducing the bacteria accumulation on the surface of your tongue. A tongue scraper can either have bristles or a corrugated plastic end. The end of the scraper will be pulled from the back of the tongue to the front to remove bacteria. A tongue scraper is a great way to reduce halitosis, (bad breath,) as a large number of bacteria accumulate in the uneven surface of the tongue.

Supplemental Aids

There are many other aids not listed here that can be used for specific areas of your mouth. Floss threaders are used to get floss underneath a fixed retainer, sulci-brushes are thin brushes that are great for cleaning around wisdom teeth, rubber tip stimulators are used to stimulate gum tissue and promote good health.

It is vital to discuss recommendations with your dentist/ dental hygienist. If you have any questions about dental aids, we encourage you to contact us today to schedule an appointment.