Beyond the Brush: Choosing the right products for your dental essentials
Dr. Linda Vidone, Delta Dental of Massachusetts’
Vice President of Clinical Management
Considering the majority of time spent caring for your oral health is done at home, having the right tools for the job is important. Delta Dental of Massachusetts’ Vice President of Clinical Management Dr. Linda Vidone goes #BeyondTheBrush to share what to look for when shopping for home dental care products.
With so many different types and brands of toothbrushes and toothpaste available on the market today, it can be overwhelming to sort through the options. Here’s what to look for to best meet your individual oral health needs.
Brushing the right way
Many people think that a hard-bristled toothbrush is better for cleaning, but this isn’t true. In fact, hard or even medium bristles can wear away your tooth enamel, causing damage over time. Soft-bristled toothbrushes are actually more effective at removing food particles and plaque while being gentle on your teeth and gums.
When considering the choice between a manual and electric toothbrush, this is often a personal preference. Electric toothbrushes use vibrations and rotations to help remove plaque more efficiently, especially around the gumline, often with less effort. Meanwhile, manual toothbrushes can still get the job done, as long as you're brushing properly.
Whichever you choose, remember to replace your toothbrush, or brush head, every three to four months. An old or damaged toothbrush won’t clean your teeth as effectively and is more likely to harbor bacteria.
A toothpaste that makes all the difference
Selecting the right toothpaste for your specific needs is crucial for maintaining optimal oral health. Do you struggle with sensitive teeth? Are you looking to brighten your smile? Or perhaps you're concerned about gum disease? Keeping these factors in mind will guide you to the best toothpaste for you.
Look for key ingredients:
Fluoride: This powerful compound is essential for preventing cavities and gingivitis while strengthening tooth enamel.
Baking Soda: If whitening your teeth is a priority, look for toothpaste that includes baking soda, which can help remove surface stains.
Potassium Nitrate: For those with sensitive teeth, choose a toothpaste with potassium nitrate to alleviate discomfort. Avoid options that contain sodium lauryl sulfate, a foaming agent that can irritate gums.
Be cautious of trendy products like charcoal-activated toothpastes or DIY versions that may contain acidic or abrasive ingredients, as these can damage your teeth over time.
Incorporate daily flossing
Flossing daily is vital for removing plaque and food particles in places where your toothbrush cannot effectively reach. This helps reduce the risk of tooth decay, gingivitis and more severe gum diseases. Similar to toothpaste, the type of floss you should choose is based on your dental health needs:
Waxed vs. Unwaxed: Both waxed and unwaxed floss are effective, but if you have tightly spaced teeth, you might find waxed floss easier to maneuver.
Thin or Thick: Thinner floss works well for closely spaced teeth, while thicker floss is generally better at removing plaque.
Consider Your Dental Work: If you have braces, bridges, or other dental appliances, opt for spongy floss or an electric flosser. Electric flossers use water or air to dislodge hard-to-reach particles and bacteria. A floss threader can also be beneficial, as it helps guide the floss into tight spaces.
Don’t forget the mouthwash
Mouthwash can also help reach areas that a toothbrush may miss, but it shouldn’t replace your twice-daily brushing. Here’s how to choose the right mouthwash for your needs:
Gum Protection: If you're looking to combat gum disease or gingivitis, select a mouthwash with antiplaque, antibacterial, and antimicrobial ingredients.
Cavity Prevention: For those prone to cavities, choose a mouthwash that contains extra fluoride to help prevent decay.
Stain Reduction: Some mouthwashes contain active ingredients like hydrogen peroxide to whiten teeth, but results take time and won’t match the effectiveness of professional whitening treatments.
Alcohol vs. Alcohol-Free: Alcohol-based mouthwashes have antibacterial properties but can irritate sensitive mouths. Alcohol-free options are gentler and better suited for those with sensitive teeth and gums.
Pro Tip: Wait about 30 minutes after brushing before using mouthwash to allow your toothpaste to work its magic!
Seal the deal
When shopping for toothbrushes or any other oral hygiene products, a good rule of thumb is to look for the American Dental Association (ADA) Seal of Acceptance on the packaging. This seal indicates that the product is safe and effective for maintaining a clean, healthy mouth. And as always, consult your dentist for personalized recommendations tailored to your specific dental needs.
