5 Must-Have Products To Ensure Good Oral Health

Add as a preferred source on Google

The nuts and bolts of oral health include basics like hygiene and dental visits. While the market is flooded with oral health products, regular dental checkups and subsequent dental awareness can go a long way in keeping you free of cavities and bleeding gums. Stay tuned as I tell you more about the must-haves for good oral health.

5 Essential Items for Good Oral Health

A healthy mouth is a precious keep. Your oral cavity is the portal of entry for anything that you eat and drink all day. So a squeaky clean mouth, free of plaque, tartar, stains, and bacteria, ensures overall health.

Let us discuss the top 5 items that you need to add to your toilet kit to keep your smile sparkling:

● The Correct Toothbrush

With market gimmicks promising to revolutionize your dental game with a toothbrush alone, there are a few subtle points that you need to keep in mind when purchasing it:

Toothbrush Handle:

● Choose a toothbrush with a comfortable grip and non-slip handle for better control while brushing.
● Opt for a lightweight and ergonomic handle that suits those with arthritis or wrist pain.
● Ergonomic design enhances grip and ease of use for quicker brushing.
Toothbrush Head:

● Pick a toothbrush with a smaller head to reach all areas, including back molars.
● Look for an oblong-shaped head that tapers to clean molars effectively.
● The head should be flexible, allowing turning and twisting for thorough cleaning.

Toothbrush Bristles:

● Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to prevent enamel erosion and gum recession.
● Some brands offer 100% biodegradable materials for environmentally friendly choices.
● Rounded bristle tips prevent injuries and ensure effective plaque and tartar removal.

ADA Seal of Approval:

● Look for the American Dental Association's seal on packaging for safety and efficacy assurance.

Dentist Consultation:

● Dentists can provide personalized recommendations based on dental health and issues.
● Consider dental needs like gum disease or braces when selecting a toothbrush.

Manual or Electric:

● Choose between manual and electric toothbrushes based on your preferences.
● Electric toothbrushes offer features like timers and brushing modes.

Replaceability:

● For electric toothbrushes, consider the availability and cost of replacement brush heads.
● Replace the toothbrush every 3-4 months or sooner if bristles fray.

Eco-friendly:
● Opt for eco-friendly choices like bamboo toothbrushes that degrade in 6 months to a year.
● Sustainable living benefits both personal well-being and the environment.

● The Suitable Toothpaste

● The fluoride content of toothpastes:

Fluoride plays a crucial role in preventing tooth decay. Opt for toothpastes that meet your recommended daily fluoride needs. Effective choices contain 1,350 to 1,500 ppm fluoride, strengthening enamel and preventing cavities. Non-fluoridated toothpastes are suitable for those allergic to fluoride.

● Sensitivity Care:

Select toothpaste for sensitive teeth and gums that contains desensitizing agents like potassium nitrates and fluorides to reduce sensitivity.

● Gum Health:

For gum issues like gingivitis, choose toothpaste with antibacterial agents for improved gum health.

● Whitening Considerations:

Whitening toothpaste with mild peroxides can eliminate surface stains, but consult your dentist before use.

● ADA Seal of Acceptance:

Look for the ADA's Seal of Approval to ensure toothpaste safety and effectiveness.

● Avoid Harmful Ingredients:

Avoid harsh toothpaste by checking the relative dentin abrasivity (RDA) below 250. Steer clear of sugary toothpaste to prevent decay.

● Personal Preferences:

Choose appealing flavors (mint, cinnamon, or fruity) for regular brushing. Opt for comfortable textures like gels or pastes, avoiding harsh powders. Trusted brands with R&D offer quality products.

Kids's toothpastes have different fluoride content, can be ingested, and come in attractive flavors.

● A Dental Floss for Your Tooth Type

Once you've mastered your routine of brushing twice daily, take your oral hygiene a step further and learn to clean what's in between the teeth and not visible to the naked eye!

A much-ignored habit among the Indians, flossing the teeth can severely reduce the chances of cavities, sensitive teeth, and bleeding gums. Out teeth generally have tight contact points that are ideal for the wedging in of food. A toothbrush is incapable of reaching the nooks and crannies- hence, the dental floss.
Always use 25mm (tight contacts) or 52mm (loose contacts) waxed dental floss for smooth in and out motions. Do not overdo the habit and injure your gums.

A Mouthwash Recommended by Your Dentist
Mouthwashes are an adjunct and NOT a substitute for brushing your teeth! They can be of different types for different purposes:

● Chlorhexidine-based ones are recommended for gum infections
● Fluoride-based mouthwashes can prevent cavities
● Desensitizing mouthwashes contain compounds like strontium fluoride that block the delicate tooth surfaces.

It is advisable to steer clear of alcohol-based mouthwashes, as they tend to dry out the mouth and cause a burning sensation.

A Tongue Cleaner
A simple yet effective ritual called tongue scraping can give you a fresher mouth, sweeter breath, and better overall health. Here is what you should check out in your tongue scraper:

● A curved shape for easy placement on the tongue
● Smooth and blunt edges to prevent injury to the delicate surface of the tongue
● An easy-to-grip, ergonomic handle to prevent accidental slippage
● A BPA-free product is biodegradable and eco-friendly.

Consistency is the key. There is no point in stocking up on toiletries unless they are used correctly. Remember to follow your dentist's instructions closely and use your must-have dental products wisely.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.