How to Choose the Right Dental Products?

Right Dental Products

With so many dental products available on the market today, how do we know which ones to choose?  How do you decide which ones to use? The first thing to do is to consult with your dentist.

Listed below is some information on basic dental products - toothbrush, toothpaste, mouthwashes and rinse.

Toothpaste

Overwhelmed by the choices available in the supermarket? Choose a toothpaste that suits your needs. It could be for whitening your teeth, sensitivity or gum protection. The first thing to consider when buying toothpaste is its fluoride content as it has been shown to prevent cavities. Prevention of cavities is equally important to all age groups. Some toothpaste is not suitable for children under the age of six as they are prone to swallowing it and this can lead to tooth discoloration in permanent teeth.

Few tips for consuming different types of toothpaste:

1. If you use sensitive toothpaste then use one that is sticky and harder to remove than normal toothpaste. Such toothpastes provide a remineralizing effect as it helps minerals to stay on your tooth surface for a longer period.
2. Whitening toothpaste can be damaging when used over a long period as it contributes to sensitivity and a breakdown of your enamel.
3. If your goal for buying toothpaste is for tartar removal then you need to pick a toothpaste which has pyrophosphates in it as this ingredient is known to help remove tartar.

Toothbrush

With so many shapes, sizes and styles of toothbrushes available in the market, it’s time consuming to find one that is suitable. After consulting and having your oral checkup you can be confident in making the right decision.

Few tips for purchasing a toothbrush:

1. Buy a toothbrush that has an appropriate size handle and works well for the shape of your mouth.
2. Consider the size of your mouth when buying a toothbrush
3. Look for a toothbrush which has more plastic bristles.
4. Go for a soft bristle brush over a hard or a medium one as it will be gentler on your gums and tooth enamel.
5. Change your toothbrush every 2 to 3 months.  

Mouthwashes and mouth rinses

A mouthwash is an additional step to maintain your oral hygiene. It does not replace brushing and flossing your teeth, twice a day. The main function of a mouthwash is to freshen your breath.  Although, in some cases, a mouthwash may not be the remedy for bad breath as it could be caused by a medical condition. In such cases, it’s best for you to visit and consult with your doctor. Mouthwashes and mouth rinses are found in differing flavors such as mint, cinnamon, lemon and tea.

Here are some tips to consider when deciding which mouthwash to buy:

1. If you are prone to cavities its better to use a mouthwash that contains fluoride.
2. Look for a mouthwash which is labeled antibacterial or plaque-inhibiting as they kill the germs that cause bad breath.
3. Avoid any mouthwash that contains alcohol and use a lubricating mouthwash instead if you are experiencing a dry mouth
4. If you suffer from any burning or irritation in your gums and teeth, it’s advisable to cease using a whitening mouthwash.
5. If you are going through any oral surgery use a mouthwash recommended by your dentist.

Floss

Flossing is essential for good oral hygiene as this will keep your gums clean and healthy. Floss is available in varying sizes, flavors and form. Foss holders are available in various drugstores if you find it difficult to use your fingers while flossing your teeth. To create an appeal amongst children, some dental floss holders are available in bright colors and patterns. Children should floss their teeth at least once a day whereas adults should try to floss their teeth more.

Here are a few tips on flossing:

1. After you floss, rinsing your mouth with a mouthwash or water helps to remove any stray particles that were dislodged from your gums. 
2. Floss your teeth at least once a day.
3. Flossing your teeth regularly keeps your gums clean and healthy and helps to prevent decay and disease. 
4. If your gums bleed at first from flossing, continue as the bleeding will subside

For more professional guidance and help you can seek Dr. Thomas Joseph BDS, MDS, ADC, a dentist you can trust. Dr. Joseph is a member of Australian Dental Association and is currently a registered General Dentist with AHPRA (Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency). He has extensive experience in a wide range of advanced dental procedures including Root Canals, Dental Implants, Crowns & Bridges, Cosmetic Dentistry and more.

You can make an appointment with Dr.Thomas Joseph by phoning 03 936545105. To find out more about oral hygiene, visit Dr. Thomas Joseph at info@drthomasjoseph.com.au.