Walking through the dental care aisle at your local pharmacy can be quite an overwhelming experience with the wide variety of products available to you. When in doubt, the best thing to do is to consult with your trusted team at Dr. Rick Dentistry. We are happy to offer advice and guidance to ensure your oral hygiene practices provide the best protection against tooth decay and periodontal disease.

The Following Are Tips on Choosing Your Oral Hygiene Products:

Toothbrush: The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends that you brush your teeth at least twice a day using a soft-bristled toothbrush. That's because hard-bristled and even medium-bristled brushes are too abrasive on your gums. Whether you choose an electric toothbrush or a manual one, make sure its shape and size allow you to reach all areas of your mouth with ease. You'll need to replace your toothbrush every 3-4 months, or even sooner if the bristles are flattened or frayed.

Toothpaste: Choose an option with fluoride to strengthen your tooth enamel and prevent tooth decay. You can also find toothpaste options that have ingredients to address sensitive teeth, remove plaque, or combat early periodontal disease (gingivitis). Make sure to avoid the regular use of whitening toothpaste, which, over time, can break down your tooth enamel. Dr. Rick and his team are happy to help you choose the right toothpaste for your dental health needs.

Dental Floss: Flossing at least once a day is just as important as brushing your teeth because it removes bacteria and debris from between your teeth, reducing the risk of tooth decay and gum disease. When choosing dental floss, you'll find waxed and unwaxed options that both promote healthy smiles. If your teeth are tightly spaced, waxed floss may glide between them more easily. If you have trouble with dental floss, you can opt for interdental picks, sticks, or mini-brushes that can get between and around your teeth.

Oral Irrigators: An oral irrigator is an excellent tool to add to your brushing and flossing routine, especially if you have braces or fixed partial dentures. The oral hygiene appliance shoots a steady stream of water into your mouth, dislodging debris from those hard-to-reach areas between and around your teeth. Keep in mind that an oral irrigator is not a substitute for routine brushing and flossing.

Mouthwash: There are different mouthwash options to tackle different oral health needs. Some contain alcohol, and some are alcohol-free. Some reduce plaque to prevent gingivitis, while others contain fluoride to help fight cavities. Some options are perfect for controlling or masking bad breath. The best way to determine the mouthwash option that's right for you is to consult with Dr. Rick and his team. They will recommend the right product for you based on your unique needs.

Quality Preventive Dentistry Near Me

Even with the best oral hygiene products, it's essential to maintain your routine dental exams and cleanings every six months to keep dental disease at bay. That will allow us to monitor your oral health and treat any problems as they develop, preventing the need for costly and involved treatments down the road. Dr. Rick and his team invite you to experience preventive care at its best. Call our Scottsdale, AZ, office and schedule your appointment today!