Confused about which dental products to buy? You’re not alone! With so many dental products on the market today, it’s hard to choose which toothbrush, mouthwash, or toothpaste to buy. Dental companies are constantly competing with one another, updating their products with the latest technology. But don’t worry, we’re here to help you with what is truthfully needed when it comes to your oral health.
Toothbrushes
Most dentists will recommend you buy a soft-bristled toothbrush. Although it may feel as if the harder bristles will clean the plaque off your teeth better, the truth is that they may brush away your enamel (your tooth’s protective coating that is hard to gain back). By properly applying the correct brushing techniques with a soft-bristled toothbrush, you will attain perfectly clean teeth. Just make sure to place your brush where your teeth and gum meet and brush in circular motions, remembering to reach your back teeth.
As for the size of the toothbrush, it doesn’t matter too much, just as long as the brush fits your mouth. But a medium-sized brush will work for most people. A good measurement for the toothbrush size is whether you can fit the toothbrush head easily in the back of your mouth to brush your back teeth.
Although some toothbrushes are now equipped with a color indicator to remind you of its replacement, all you need to do is check the bristles. If they are bent, it’s time to buy a toothbrush. Typically, it’s good to generally replace toothbrushes every 3 months.
How about those fancy electronic toothbrushes? It all depends on your needs! If the timer will help you remember to brush longer, most dentists are all for it!
Toothpaste
Before picking up the toothpaste with the shiniest box, check if it’s fluoridated!! Exposing your teeth to fluoride even for just a short amount of time will strengthen your teeth.
If you’re all about the whitening toothpaste, just know that the amount of peroxide is too small to bleach your teeth significantly, but it can remove some surface stains. To do deep bleaching, it’s best to use a whitener (in-office or over the counter).
Floss
Since floss is often neglected, dentists will be happy knowing you use any type of floss! However, dentists do usually recommend buying lightly-waxed or non-waxed floss. When you floss, try to listen for the “squeaky clean” noise!
Mouthwash
Contrary to common belief, mouthwash will not kill all plaque-causing bacteria and does not replace brushing or flossing. But using a rinse with essential oils after brushing for the indicated amount of time on the label does help slow the formation of plaque throughout the day. Since a new crop of germ develops every 24 hours, every little bit of mouthwash does help. Don’t overuse it though because the rinse can start to produce sloughy, stinky tissue!
Happy Thanksgiving and don’t forget to floss!
Peace, love, and dental floss,
B
Dr. David Eshom DDS
8899 University Center Lane, Suite 245
San Diego, CA 92122
858.455.9151
8899 University Center Lane, Suite 245
San Diego, CA 92122
858.455.9151
If you’re having a hard time choosing which brand to buy of a certain dental product, it would be best to consult your dentist. They would know which one is the most appropriate for the condition of your teeth and gums. I know it is sometimes pleasing to try different brands and evaluate which of them you think is good. But considering the sensitivity of our mouth, I couldn’t recommend the trial-and-error approach.
Trinidad Philipps
Thanks for taking the time to share this informative information with us. I enjoyed the detailed list that you provided on what to have to keep your dental health looking wonderful. Have a great rest of your day.
Dentist Center City Philadelphia