07 Mar Toothpaste and Toothbrushes
Every patient should know by now that regularly brushing their teeth, along with flossing, gives them their best chance of avoiding tooth decay and gum disease. Unfortunately, the selection of toothbrushes and toothpaste is often left to chance. So let’s look at some types of toothbrushes and toothpaste that are available.
Types of Toothbrushes
There is a seemingly infinite variety of toothbrushes available today, which can be easily purchased at your local pharmacy, grocery store, or even online. The most important thing about your toothbrush is that it fits the unique contours of your teeth and mouth so that you can reach every single tooth.
Toothbrushes for Kids
If you looking to buy a toothbrush for your child, select one based upon their age. Most toothbrushes have the recommended age displayed on the packaging.
Manufacturers have developed their products for children who no longer have their baby teeth, so that the gums are unaffected when brushing.
There is even a special type of brush called a “finger toothbrush.” This type of brush is appropriate for kids who cannot yet brush their teeth themselves and have just gotten their first baby teeth.
Electric Toothbrushes
This type of brush works using electricity or batteries. An electric toothbrush will be moving the toothbrush mechanically to remove food particles and prevent tooth decay.
Opting for an electric toothbrush over a manual one is mostly a matter of taste, as they don’t work any better than regular toothbrushes. What matters more is your brushing technique.
Bristle Texture
One criteria common to all toothbrushes are bristle texture and strength. They range from soft to medium to hard. Most dentists recommend that their patients use a soft or medium-bristled toothbrush, as hard bristles can damage the teeth and irritate the gums.
Storing Your Toothbrush
Make sure that you thoroughly rinse your toothbrush after every use. According to the American Dental Association, toothbrushes should be stored in an upright position so that they can air-dry until the next use.
Types of Toothpaste
No matter what type of toothbrush you choose, it won’t do you much good unless you select the right toothpaste to go with it. Dentists recommend that adults use fluoride toothpaste to strengthen their tooth enamel and guard against tooth decay. For younger children who may swallow toothpaste, there are specific formulations available.
Many patients benefit from toothpaste containing something called xylitol. This product actively works to destroy the bacteria that cause cavities. A growing number of kinds of toothpaste also contain natural antibiotic substances, like tea tree oil, to help wipe out oral bacteria.
One type of toothpaste to be careful with is one that contains any type of abrasive. These products can strip away the tooth enamel if overused. If you decide to use abrasive toothpaste, you may want to only use it a few times a week to prevent tooth enamel erosion.
After you settle upon the right toothpaste and toothbrush, don’t forget to keep up with your regular dental exam and cleaning appointments. If you have been slacking in this department, please contact Blue Wave Dental Care today to schedule your next appointment.