There are an abundance of dental products available today. With so much to choose from, trying to determine which products are most effective can be confusing. Below are a few helpful tips to help you select the products that will enable you to take good care of your teeth and gums.
Use Products with the American Dental Association Seal of Acceptance:
If a dental product has the ADA Seal on it, this means that is has met the ADA standards for safety and effectiveness. You may find this seal on toothpaste, toothbrushes, floss, mouthrinse and interdental cleaners.
Both Manual and Electric Toothbrushes are Effective When Used Properly:
Either brush will remove plaque and reduce gingivitis. If using a manual brush, choose one with soft bristles that will prevent toothbrush abrasion and gum recession. Be sure to replace your toothbrush every three to four months or sooner if you notice the bristles becoming frayed or worn. Power toothbrushes have been shown to more efficiently remove plaque because of the rotation and oscillation of the bristles. And many come with sensors to alert you if too much pressure is being used when brushing.
Oral Irrigating Devices are a Useful Additional Tool:
These devices can be useful for patients who wear braces or dentures and for those with advanced gum recession and bone loss. They should not be used in place of brushing and flossing but as an adjunct for removing food particles and loosening plaque on the teeth.
Check Mouth Rinse Labels Closely:
Some mouth rinses have a broader range of uses than others. While some have a pleasant taste and can help freshen breath, others help prevent cavities, clean teeth and gums, and kill germs. Some also have Fluoride. If you are constantly using a rinse of bad breath, you should see your dentist.
