This is going to be a great year for you and your oral care. More than ever, dental gear is advancing in ways that will allow you to optimize your oral hygiene routine. Hate flossing? We have floss options for you. Not sure if you brushed away all the plaque? There’s not an app for that yet, but we’ve got gear for you. Find out our top picks for dental gear that will keep your smile healthy and bright.
Waterpik
We pick the waterpik for our first item on this list because it works great when used in conjunction with floss. Remember the last part of that sentence, “when used in conjunction with floss.” Flossing cannot be replaced, and most dental professionals would not recommend replacing a waterpik with traditional floss. Talk to your dentist about your particular needs, as waterpiks may also not be right for everyone. Again, talk to your dentist and ask if this tool is right for you. So, what exactly is a waterpik? A waterpik uses a blast of high pressure water to push food particles and plaque from between teeth.
Using a waterpik can work well for people with braces because it can help remove food particles, however even if you have braces, you still need to floss! Flossing cannot be replaced by anything, not even the waterpik, because you still need to work the floss between the gum line and the tooth, and a waterpik simply cannot do this as effectively. Now that we’ve got your attention with flossing, our next pick for dental gear is meant to motivate you to floss more consistently.
Use Dental Floss that Stretches
What’s your excuse for not flossing? Is it because it feels uncomfortable? Do you lose circulation to your fingers? Does the floss get stuck between your teeth? If you are still using unwaxed traditional floss and you hate it, maybe it is time to try the new dental flosses on the market. Listerine has a dental floss that stretches so it doesn’t cut circulation from your fingers as you use it.
Many brands now sell waxed floss that glides more easily between your teeth, which may be more comfortable for people who have teeth that are very crowded. Most flavored flosses are plain mint flavored, but in today’s world, you have many options…including breakfast flavored floss. Love the taste of coffee? Well, there’s a floss for that!
Plaque Disclosing Tablets
Plaque disclosing tablets reveal where plaque is left behind after brushing. You just chew a tablet and your mouth will be covered with a dye, and the areas where plaque remains will appear darker. Maybe this isn’t a tool you should use everyday because that would be tedious, but it may give you some insight into the areas of the mouth that you aren’t brushing well enough. A dental mirror may be needed so you can see the further reaches of your mouth. Be sure to talk to your dentist about using these tablets as some people may be allergic to some of the ingredients used in them.
Electric Toothbrushes
Electric toothbrushes are good tools for people who have a motor disability or arthritis. Electric toothbrushes can be very effective if used correctly and sometimes are a good option for children. There are electric toothbrushes now specifically for children, and many of these have built-in timers that stop after two minutes of brushing is up.
Have more questions about which toothpaste, floss or toothbrush to use? Visit your dentist for dental gear recommendations and find out which products would be best for you. Contact us to schedule an appointment at North Tonawanda today to get a healthier and brighter smile.