The dental care aisle at the pharmacy can be overwhelming. We’ve rounded up some essential items to fill out a typical dental care tool kit. These tools help maintain a robust dental care routine at home and lead to brighter, cleaner teeth and fresher breath. They may also help prevent oral diseases and symptoms like gingivitis, tooth sensitivity, and tartar. Remember that any dental care product must have the American Dental Association’s Seal of Acceptance on the packaging at checkout.
Toothbrush
A good-quality toothbrush should have soft bristles and fit your mouth comfortably. People who prefer a manual toothbrush must use gentle, circular motions to clean their teeth. An electric toothbrush can clean teeth without the hard sawing motion that some people use. It’s also gentle on the teeth and gums and comes in handy for people with arthritis or any condition which hampers the mobility of the hands.
Toothpaste
The best way to select a toothpaste that meets specific oral health needs is to ask a dentist for a recommendation. A good rule of thumb is to look for a brand that contains fluoride, which strengthens tooth enamel. Some brands target issues like plaque, bad breath, and tooth sensitivity.
Dental Floss
Floss helps get food particles out from between the teeth and helps reduce plaque in the long run. Dentists recommend that people floss at least twice a day. People with teeth set close to each other should use waxed floss or flossing tape. Unwaxed floss is effective for widely spaced teeth. Dental floss is also available in flavors, so it can’t hurt to buy a roll in a delicious flavor.
Oral Irrigators
This tool shoots a stream of water into the mouth and flushes out food particles from hard-to-reach corners and gaps in the mouth and teeth. People who wear braces or have fixed partial dentures will benefit from this tool. It ramps up a basic oral hygiene routine.
Mouthwash
Most mouthwashes pack a pretty good punch. They can tackle plaque, fight cavities, and help prevent gum disease. Having a bottle on hand boosts an oral care regimen.
