How to Choose the Right Dental Products
Dental Products
When you walk down the tooth care aisle at the grocery store, you’re inundated with countless products to choose from. With so many toothbrush styles, toothpaste brands, and mouthwash ingredients to sift through, it can be difficult to decide which dental products to use. This guide will help you know what to look for.
Choosing a Toothbrush
As a quintessential dental product, the toothbrush you choose is perhaps your most important decision. You should ask Dr. Evanson for personalized advice based on your unique needs, but here are some general tips to keep in mind when choosing a toothbrush:
- Most dentists recommend a soft-bristled brush. This is effective for removing plaque and food particles from your teeth without damaging the enamel or gums.
- A small-headed brush is usually preferable because it can reach the trickiest spots in your mouth, including behind your back molars.
- Pick a handle size and shape that is most comfortable for you. The goal is to reach all your teeth easily.
- An electric toothbrush is more expensive but far superior at removing plaque and preventing staining than an ordinary toothbrush. It’s also easier to use, making it a good choice for children and people with arthritis.
- Remember to replace your toothbrush when it begins to wear out, or every three months, whichever comes first. You should also replace your toothbrush after being ill.
Choosing Toothpaste
Fluoride is the most important ingredient to look for on a tube of toothpaste because it helps to strengthen your enamel. Of course, if you’re allergic to fluoride or have a medical condition that prevents you from using it safely, choose fluoride-free toothpaste. Speak with Dr. Evanson for recommendations before making the switch.
Xylitol is another beneficial ingredient in some types of toothpaste that helps prevent cavities. This natural sugar alcohol can be used alongside fluoride or instead of it, making xylitol a good alternative for people who can’t use fluoride.
Next, you’ll want to consider the benefits of using different types of toothpaste. Some can whiten your teeth by about one shade with prolonged use. Others are designed to help protect sensitive teeth or guard against tartar buildup. Consider your personal needs and what you want from your toothpaste when making your final selection.
Choosing Floss
Flossing once a day is critical for healthy gums. You can find many different sizes, coatings, flavors, and forms. Find floss that is the right thickness for getting between your teeth. If you like mint coatings and flavors, give that option a try.
If you find it difficult to hold onto floss, consider trying flossers, which have a short length of floss set into a handle, making it more comfortable to use. Children may have an easier time using flossers than regular floss, though you should supervise this activity.
Choosing a Mouthwash
Mouthwash is effective for freshening your breath, but if you use the right kind, it can also control plaque and kill bacteria. Here’s what you should know:
- Anti-plaque mouthwash removes what brushing and flossing leave behind.
- Anti-gingivitis mouthwash removes the bacteria that can cause gum disease.
- If a bottle has the American Dental Association seal of approval, this means the claims on the label have been verified.
- Decide whether you want alcohol or alcohol-free mouthwash. Keep in mind that alcohol mouthwash creates a burning sensation that many people like, but the alcohol can cause excessive dryness, which is problematic if you have dry mouth.
Choosing a Water Irrigation Device
Most people don’t use water irrigation devices, but if your gums are prone to bleeding, inflammation, or plaque, consider trying one. The device uses a high-powered jet of water to stimulate your gums and remove debris that ordinary flossing misses. It can even be an alternative to flossing for people with braces or other orthodontic appliances.
Get Personalized Advice for Choosing Dental Products from Dr. Evanson
If you still have questions about what dental products to use, request personalized advice from Dr. Evanson. We’ll take your oral health history and any concerns you have into account when making our recommendations.
To schedule your next visit to our Parker dentist office, please call (720) 409-0008 or contact us online.
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