Oral Hygiene Aids

One of the most important ways to avoid future dental problems is a daily, thorough oral homecare routine.  Some of the most common dental diseases can be prevented by daily brushing and flossing.  Also, even after fillings have been done, your daily routine can help prevent cavities from coming back.  To help you navigate the products on the shelf, here are some of the most common oral hygiene aids recommended by dentists:

 
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Floss

Recommended twice daily after brushing. The most common interdental cleaner that comes in a variety of types and sizes. Removes food and plaque above and below the gums or under bridges.

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Mouth Rinses

Recommended to counteract bad breath or help combat dry mouth; therapeutic rinses are prescribed  and contain active ingredients to reduce bad breath, plaque and cavities. OTC rinses have minimal effectiveness against plaque.

Interdental (proximal) Cleaners

Recommended to help clean spaces in between teeth that are too large for floss.  Different varieties exist but most are a tiny brush that is gentle on the gums and effective at removing plaque in wide spaces between teeth.

Manual brushes should be replaced every 1-2 months.  Soft bristles are less damaging to gum tissue.

Oral Irrigators

Recommended for removing food particles only and in addition to brushing and flossing.  Oral irrigators should not replace flossing.  Water is sprayed from tiny jets to remove food build up along the gum line and in between teeth.

Toothbrushes

Recommended after each meal or minimally twice each day.  Electric toothbrushes can be more effective when used properly because they require less effort but manual brushes can achieve the same result.  

Rubber Tip stimulators

Recommended for removing plaque from around the gum line and for stimulating blood flow to the gums.  The tips can get worn and the tip should be traced gently along the outer/inner gum line once/day.

Tongue Cleaners

Recommended to remove bacteria, fungi and food debris that build up on the tongue and contribute to halitosis (bad breath).