Top Tools for Keeping Teeth Clean

*This is a collaborative post on the top tools for keeping teeth clean

These days, there are many dental-hygiene tools available beyond the humble toothbrush to help you get a better clean and improve your overall oral health. It is important to build a daily routine that will protect your teeth and gums while suiting specific needs, such as children, sensitive gums, orthodontics, etc. With this in mind, this post will explore a few of the top tools for keeping your teeth clean. Keep reading to find out more. 

The right toothbrush: Manual vs electric

Choosing the right toothbrush is the foundation of good oral hygiene. Whether you choose manual or electric, you want to choose a brush with a small or medium head, soft or medium multi-tufted nylon bristles, and a comfortable handle. Manual toothbrushes can be effective, but you need to master the proper brushing technique and be consistent. Electric toothbrushes are recommended by dentists and have oscillating movements that can remove plaque with less effort.

Interdental brushes, floss, and beyond for cleaning between the teeth

Brushing alone is not enough for good oral health. Many plaque and food deposits hide between teeth and near the gum line, which can be hard to reach with a toothbrush. This is why you need to find a method to clean between the teeth. Standard floss is effective, but it can be difficult and requires dexterity. Interdental brushes can be more effective for wider gaps, orthodontic appliances, bridges, or implants. You need to choose the right size to ensure that brushes move through without force while contacting the tooth surface. 

Water flossers and oral irrigators

Water flossers, also called oral irrigators, are an increasingly recommended tool for cleaning between the teeth and below the gum line. They are particularly beneficial for people with braces, dental work, sensitive gums, or limited manual dexterity. Recent evidence shows that a cordless water flosser can be as effective as, or even more effective than, traditional flossing for gum health.

Complementary tools: Tongue scrapers, mouthwash, and gum care aids

There are then various complementary tools that complete a hygiene routine, but are often overlooked. Tongue scrapers or tongue brushes can be used to reduce bacteria and freshen breath, while a gentle mouthwash can kill bacteria and reduce plaque. Single-tuft brushes or specialised interdental heads can also he used to access hard-to-reach areas. These aids should complement, not replace, brushing and interdental cleaning. 

The information in this post should help you select the right tools to enhance your dental hygiene routine. Hopefully, this will give you a better clean, improve your self-confidence, and help you avoid dental issues.