What are the best oral care products for maintaining excellent dental hygiene. How can you establish an effective oral care routine. Which natural ingredients are beneficial for your teeth and gums. What role does activated charcoal play in modern dental care.

The Importance of Oral Health and Hygiene

Maintaining good oral health is crucial not only for a bright smile but also for overall well-being. Poor dental hygiene can lead to various issues, ranging from cavities and gum disease to more serious health problems like stroke, diabetes, and heart disease. By developing a proper oral care routine and using the right products, you can protect your teeth and gums from tartar buildup, decay, and bad breath.

When selecting oral care products, it’s essential to look for natural, eco-friendly options that are free from harmful ingredients. This approach benefits both your health and the environment. Remember that dental health is important for people of all ages, including teenagers, children, and even infants without permanent teeth.

Essential Components of an Effective Oral Hygiene Routine

A good oral hygiene routine involves more than just brushing your teeth. Here are the key components to incorporate into your daily dental care regimen:

• Brushing at least twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush
• Flossing at least once daily
• Using mouthwash to reduce acid levels in the mouth
• Cleaning your tongue to remove bacteria
• Maintaining a healthy diet low in sugary and acidic foods

Proper technique is just as important as using the right products. When brushing, tilt your toothbrush at an angle and use circular motions. After flossing, gently scrape or brush your tongue to remove bacteria. Finally, swish vigorously with mouthwash to complete your routine.

Timing Matters: When to Use Mouthwash

If you use fluoride toothpaste, it’s best to wait about 30 minutes after brushing before using mouthwash. This delay allows the fluoride to strengthen your tooth enamel effectively. By following this simple timing tip, you can maximize the benefits of both products.

Strategies for Cavity Prevention

Cavities can cause significant discomfort and lead to more serious dental issues if left untreated. Fortunately, there are several strategies you can employ to prevent tooth decay:

1. Limit consumption of sugary and acidic foods and drinks
2. Rinse your mouth with water between meals
3. Choose healthy snacks like raw, crunchy vegetables and fruits
4. Establish a consistent daily oral hygiene routine
5. Replace your toothbrush every few months
6. Visit your dentist for regular checkups and cleanings

Understanding how cavities form can help you take proactive steps to prevent them. Bacteria in your mouth convert sugars and starches into acids that erode tooth enamel, leading to decay. By minimizing exposure to these harmful substances and maintaining good oral hygiene, you can significantly reduce your risk of developing cavities.

The Role of Activated Charcoal in Modern Dental Care

Activated charcoal has gained popularity in recent years as an effective ingredient in oral care products. This natural substance has been used for teeth cleaning since ancient Roman times, and modern research supports its benefits for dental health.

How does activated charcoal work to improve oral hygiene? The high-temperature processing of charcoal creates a porous substance that effectively traps food particles and bacteria. When used in toothpaste or other dental products, activated charcoal can help:

• Remove surface stains from teeth
• Polish tooth enamel
• Fight tartar buildup
• Combat odor-causing bacteria

While the black foam produced by charcoal toothpaste may seem counterintuitive for teeth whitening, its mild abrasiveness makes it an effective and gentle stain remover. Many consumers find that regular use of activated charcoal products leads to noticeably brighter smiles.

Types of Activated Charcoal Dental Products

The dental care market now offers a variety of products incorporating activated charcoal:

• Charcoal toothpaste (with or without fluoride)
• Charcoal toothpaste tabs
• Activated charcoal-infused dental floss
• Toothbrushes with charcoal-infused bristles

These innovative products provide consumers with multiple options for incorporating the benefits of activated charcoal into their oral care routines.

Choosing the Right Toothbrush for Your Needs

Selecting the appropriate toothbrush is a crucial step in maintaining optimal oral health. With numerous options available, it’s essential to consider factors such as bristle type, handle design, and size when making your choice.

Manual vs. Electric Toothbrushes

Both manual and electric toothbrushes can be effective when used correctly. Manual toothbrushes offer simplicity and affordability, while electric models may provide more consistent cleaning and are particularly beneficial for those with limited dexterity. Some electric toothbrushes even come with built-in timers to ensure you brush for the recommended two minutes.

Bristle Softness

Most dentists recommend soft-bristled toothbrushes for daily use. Soft bristles are gentle on gums and enamel while still effectively removing plaque and debris. Medium or hard bristles may cause damage to tooth enamel and gum tissue if used too vigorously.

Handle Design and Size

Choose a toothbrush with a comfortable handle that allows for easy maneuvering in your mouth. The brush head should be appropriately sized to reach all areas of your teeth and gums. For children, smaller brushes with fun designs can encourage regular brushing habits.

The Importance of Flossing in Your Oral Care Routine

While brushing is essential, flossing plays a crucial role in maintaining optimal oral health. Flossing removes food particles and plaque from areas between teeth and along the gumline that your toothbrush can’t reach effectively.

Types of Dental Floss

There are several types of dental floss available to suit different needs and preferences:

• Waxed floss: Slides easily between teeth and is less likely to fray
• Unwaxed floss: Thinner and can fit into tighter spaces between teeth
• Dental tape: Broader and flatter than traditional floss, ideal for wider spaces
• Super floss: Features a stiff end for easy threading, especially useful for braces and bridges
• Flavored floss: Available in various flavors to make flossing more enjoyable

Experiment with different types to find the one that works best for you and encourages regular flossing.

Proper Flossing Technique

To maximize the benefits of flossing, follow these steps:

1. Use about 18 inches of floss, winding most of it around your middle fingers
2. Hold the floss tightly between your thumbs and forefingers
3. Guide the floss gently between your teeth using a rubbing motion
4. When the floss reaches the gum line, curve it into a C shape against one tooth
5. Slide the floss into the space between the gum and tooth
6. Repeat this process for each tooth, using a clean section of floss each time

Consistent flossing helps prevent gum disease, reduces bad breath, and complements your brushing routine for comprehensive oral care.

Natural Ingredients for Healthy Teeth and Gums

Many oral care products now incorporate natural ingredients that offer various benefits for dental health. These ingredients can provide effective cleaning, whitening, and protective properties without the use of harsh chemicals.

Neem

Neem is an herbal extract with antimicrobial properties that can help fight bacteria responsible for plaque formation and gum disease. It’s often found in natural toothpastes and mouthwashes.

Tea Tree Oil

Known for its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, tea tree oil can help reduce gum inflammation and fight bad breath. It’s commonly used in natural mouthwashes and toothpastes.

Xylitol

This natural sweetener not only provides a pleasant taste but also helps prevent tooth decay by inhibiting the growth of bacteria that cause cavities. Xylitol is often found in sugar-free gum and some toothpastes.

Coconut Oil

Coconut oil has antimicrobial properties and can help reduce plaque buildup and gingivitis. It’s used in oil pulling, a traditional oral hygiene practice, and is also found in some natural toothpastes.

Green Tea Extract

Rich in antioxidants, green tea extract can help reduce inflammation and fight bacteria in the mouth. It’s often included in natural mouthwashes and some toothpastes.

When choosing oral care products with natural ingredients, look for those that have been clinically tested and approved by dental professionals to ensure their safety and effectiveness.

Addressing Common Oral Health Concerns

While maintaining a good oral hygiene routine can prevent many dental issues, some concerns may still arise. Understanding these common problems and how to address them can help you maintain optimal oral health.

Tooth Sensitivity

Tooth sensitivity can occur due to enamel wear, gum recession, or other factors. To manage sensitivity:

• Use toothpaste designed for sensitive teeth
• Avoid very hot or cold foods and drinks
• Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and brush gently
• Consider using a fluoride mouthwash to strengthen enamel

If sensitivity persists, consult your dentist to rule out any underlying issues.

Bad Breath (Halitosis)

Persistent bad breath can be embarrassing and may indicate underlying oral health problems. To combat bad breath:

• Brush and floss regularly, including your tongue
• Stay hydrated to maintain saliva production
• Use an antibacterial mouthwash
• Avoid foods that contribute to bad breath, such as garlic and onions
• Quit smoking

If bad breath persists despite good oral hygiene, consult your dentist to check for gum disease or other potential causes.

Dry Mouth (Xerostomia)

Dry mouth can increase the risk of tooth decay and gum disease. To manage dry mouth:

• Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water
• Chew sugar-free gum to stimulate saliva production
• Use alcohol-free mouthwash designed for dry mouth
• Consider using a humidifier while sleeping
• Avoid caffeine and alcohol, which can contribute to dehydration

If dry mouth is a persistent issue, consult your dentist or doctor, as it may be a side effect of certain medications or medical conditions.

Teeth Grinding (Bruxism)

Teeth grinding can lead to worn enamel, jaw pain, and headaches. To address this issue:

• Use a custom-fitted night guard to protect your teeth while sleeping
• Practice stress-reduction techniques, as stress is a common cause of bruxism
• Avoid caffeine and alcohol before bedtime
• Try jaw exercises to relax the muscles

If you suspect you’re grinding your teeth, consult your dentist for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.

The Future of Oral Care: Innovations and Trends

The field of oral care is constantly evolving, with new technologies and approaches emerging to improve dental health. Here are some exciting innovations and trends to watch:

Smart Toothbrushes

Smart toothbrushes equipped with sensors and connected to smartphone apps can provide real-time feedback on brushing technique, duration, and coverage. These devices can help users improve their brushing habits and track their oral health over time.

3D-Printed Dental Products

3D printing technology is being used to create custom-fit dental appliances, such as night guards and aligners, with greater precision and efficiency. This technology may soon extend to the production of personalized toothbrushes and other oral care tools.

Probiotics for Oral Health

Research is exploring the use of beneficial bacteria (probiotics) to promote a healthy oral microbiome and prevent issues like tooth decay and gum disease. Probiotic lozenges and mouthwashes may become more common in the future.

Nanotechnology in Dental Care

Nanoparticles are being developed to enhance the remineralization of tooth enamel and deliver targeted treatments for oral health issues. This technology could lead to more effective and less invasive dental treatments.

Artificial Intelligence in Dentistry

AI is being integrated into dental imaging and diagnosis, helping dentists detect issues earlier and plan treatments more effectively. In the future, AI may play a role in personalized oral care recommendations and treatment plans.

As these innovations continue to develop, they promise to make oral care more effective, personalized, and accessible for people of all ages.

Sustainable Oral Care: Eco-Friendly Products and Practices

As environmental consciousness grows, many consumers are seeking sustainable alternatives in their oral care routines. Here are some eco-friendly options and practices to consider:

Biodegradable Toothbrushes

Bamboo toothbrushes and other biodegradable options offer an environmentally friendly alternative to plastic brushes. These products break down naturally, reducing plastic waste in landfills and oceans.

Plastic-Free Packaging

Look for oral care products that come in recyclable or compostable packaging. Some companies now offer toothpaste in glass jars or metal tubes, and dental floss in refillable glass containers.

Water Conservation

Turn off the faucet while brushing your teeth to conserve water. This simple habit can save several gallons of water per day.

Natural and Organic Ingredients

Choose oral care products made with natural, organic ingredients that are sustainably sourced and free from harmful chemicals. These products are often better for both your health and the environment.

Recyclable Electric Toothbrush Heads

Some electric toothbrush manufacturers now offer recycling programs for used brush heads. Participate in these programs to reduce waste and support circular economy initiatives.

By incorporating these sustainable practices and products into your oral care routine, you can maintain excellent dental health while minimizing your environmental impact.

30 Best Oral Health & Dental Care Products

Oral health and hygiene may not be the most toothsome topic, but it’s an important one to get a “handle” on. Okay, seriously, aside from the obvious discomfort of a trip to the dentist to fill cavities, there’s gum disease (or periodontal disease) to consider — a major health risk linked to a host of other problems such as stroke, diabetes, and heart disease. But the scary stuff isn’t the only reason you should develop a good oral health routine.

The good news? Knowing how to use the best oral care products for cleaning your teeth and gums — and even your tongue — will help you protect them against tartar buildup, tooth decay, and foul breath. Look for natural, planet-friendly products free of harmful ingredients.

And, remember, dental health products aren’t just for adults. Teenagers, children, and even infants without permanent teeth can get cavities that lead to more serious complications. To help you select the best toothpaste, best toothbrush, and best dental floss for your family, we’ve gathered a list of Grove favorites.

This list of products was determined by ratings and reviews from Grove members.

What is a good oral hygiene routine?

Creating healthy daily habits is vital to developing a good oral hygiene routine. That includes selecting the best oral care products to get the job done, from choosing the best toothpaste to finding the right toothbrushes for you and your family.

Brushing and flossing your teeth properly, however, is just as important for dental care as the products you use. Most dentists recommend brushing your teeth at least twice a day with a soft-bristled brush and flossing a minimum of once a day.

Tilt your toothbrush at an angle and brush teeth in circular motions. After flossing, gently scrape or brush bacteria off your tongue. Finally, swish vigorously with mouthwash, which reduces the amount of acid in your mouth. (If you’re using a fluoride toothpaste, wait 30 minutes after brushing so you don’t wash away the fluoride, which strengthens tooth enamel. )

Too tired at the end of the day? Resist crawling into bed without brushing your teeth! Brushing — and flossing — gets rid of food particles in the grooves of your teeth and around your gums. If allowed to linger overnight, these can promote the growth of bacteria, which leads to tooth decay and gingivitis (early gum disease).

How do you avoid cavities?

Even the tiniest cavity can wreak havoc in your mouth if it goes untreated. But tooth decay actually takes time to occur, so prevention is key.

One of the best ways to avoid cavities is to be mindful about what foods you put into your mouth. Sodas, fruit juices, and sugary treats are major culprits when it comes to tooth decay. Why? Bacteria in your mouth convert sugars and starches into acids that wear down the minerals in the enamel on your teeth, which then causes cavities.

Acidic foods like citrus fruits, tomatoes, coffee, tea, and wine can also soften the enamel on your teeth, so wait before you rush to brush them. Instead, swish your mouth with water between daily cleanings to help wash away acids that may cling to your teeth.

Better yet, switch to healthier snacks like raw, crunchy vegetables and fruits, such as carrots and apples, which naturally clean plaque from your teeth and stimulate saliva that neutralizes acids.

To maintain good dental health: Establish a daily oral hygiene routine, change your toothbrush every few months, and visit a dentist for semi-annual cleanings and oral checkups.

Is charcoal good for your teeth?

Yes, actually, charcoal is good for your teeth. In fact, using charcoal powder to clean teeth dates all the way back to Roman times. But before you rip open a bag of charcoal briquettes — please don’t! — consider that some of the best toothpaste options include activated charcoal toothpaste, available with or without fluoride.

So how does this gentle stain remover work? Activated charcoal (also called activated carbon) is processed at very high temperatures to make a porous substance, which allows food particles to adhere to it. As activated charcoal toothpaste tends to cover your teeth in black foam, it may seem counterintuitive to use it as a teeth whitener. However, this mildly abrasive tooth cleaning agent is designed to polish those pearly whites while fighting tartar and odor-causing bacteria.

Other natural dental health products that use activated charcoal include charcoal toothpaste tabs, activated charcoal-infused floss, and charcoal bristle toothbrushes.

What is Grove Collaborative?

At Grove, we take the guesswork out of which products are good for you and your home. Every product meets strict standards for being nontoxic, effective, sustainable, and cruelty-free. Once you find products you love, we ship to your home on a flexible, monthly schedule.

If you’re ready to make the transition to natural cleaning, beauty, and household products, shop Grove Collaborative’s natural products for the eco-friendly tools to tackle the job.

Best Dental Health Product: 8 New Toothbrushes, Mouthwashes, Whitening Kits, Flosses, Toothpastes for 2021

Finding the right dental-health product for your needs can be tough. When it comes to taking care of your teeth, there are a ton of products that clean, whiten, and kick bad breath to the curb. But unlike applying a soothing sheet mask, sometimes finding and dealing with all of the toothbrushes, toothpaste, whitening treatments, flosses, mouthwashes, and more can be a pain (and sometimes, actually painful if you have sensitive teeth).

This year, as part of our SELF Healthy Beauty Awards, we added the category of oral care for the first time. Our testers sampled all manners of brand new dental-health-care products—including mouthwashes, electric toothbrushes, manual toothbrushes, whitening toothpastes for stained teeth, toothpaste tablets, flosses, water flossers, at-home whitening kits, and more—using guidelines set by American Dental Association–approved (ADA) professional dentists.

That’s because we understand that finding the best dental health product can make you feel great about your smile—while still being easy enough to routinely use (and enjoy using too).

The TL;DR from dentists regarding oral hygiene is that everyone should brush teeth twice daily and floss at least once—but we’re guessing you already knew that. All other products (mouthwashes for fresher breath, at-home whitening kits, etc.) are extra and mostly cosmetic.

Hands down, electric toothbrushes are more effective than manual toothbrushes, and often easier to use, as they take care of the scrubbing for you, and traditional flosses clean away bacteria and food more thoroughly than water flossers. That said, it’s still better to use a soft-bristled manual toothbrush and a water flosser than skip both altogether. (Psst: Here’s our buying guide for electric toothbrushes.)

If you have sensitive teeth and gums, keep an eye out for toothpastes and mouthwashes that include fluoride, a mineral which can strengthen teeth and combat cavities, as well as potassium nitrate, an additive you might find in whitening products, which can balance sensitivity. If you have a dry mouth, avoid alcohol and peroxide. But if you’re dealing with discoloration, mouthwashes with peroxide and hydrogen peroxide are a plus, as are whitening toothpastes that contain abrasives like silica, which polish teeth and dissolve stains. You can see the rest of our dentist-informed criteria here. 

Keep reading to see our top picks for the best new dental-care products that are basically guaranteed to keep your smile bright, shiny, and healthy. And go here to check out all of the best new beauty products for 2021.

Reviews have been edited and condensed for clarity and length.

All products featured on SELF are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Overview of modern oral hygiene products

At all times, the health of teeth and gums has been indisputably associated with oral hygiene. Ancient healers claimed that a person is healthy as long as his teeth are healthy.

Considering the high prevalence of dental caries and periodontal diseases, it is quite understandable that modern dentists strive to use all existing methods of prevention to prevent dental diseases and reduce their intensity.

One of the most effective and, at the same time, the simplest and most affordable measures to prevent these diseases is the correct and effective care of teeth and gums using the entire arsenal of modern oral hygiene products.

Oral hygiene products include:

• Toothpastes, gels.
• Toothbrushes.
• Mouth rinses.
• Dental floss (floss).
• Powders and tablets for the treatment of dentures.
• Chewing gum.

✓ toothpastes are extensively classified according to various features. They are available in the form of a paste, gel, cream. The form of release of toothpaste is determined by its intended purpose.

Until recently, 2 main types of toothpastes were distinguished in Russia:

• Hygienic. They only have a cleansing and refreshing effect.
• Prophylactic. Designed to prevent diseases of the oral cavity.

The latter are divided into simple and complex. Simple in their composition contain 1-2 preventive components. Composite have in their composition 2 or more components aimed at preventing either one problem of the oral cavity, or different ones.

Among other things, you should know that toothpastes are for individual use and professional. The latter are used only by a hygienist or dentist for professional oral hygiene.

The choice of toothpaste should be approached carefully, taking into account all individual characteristics. And given today’s variety of toothpastes, even the most capricious consumers manage to find their own version.

✓ Toothbrushes – a group of personal oral hygiene products designed to remove plaque and massage the gums.

Toothbrushes are classified as follows:

• By bristle type.
• According to bristle stiffness.
• According to the number of rows of bristles.
• By appointment.
• According to the size of the working part.

Dentists recommend the use of toothbrushes with artificial bristles based on numerous studies. Brushes with natural bristles are a favorable environment for the development of microorganisms.

Each toothbrush has bristles arranged in tufts. It has been established that the arrangement of bristles in 3-4 rows allows the most thorough cleaning of all surfaces of the teeth.

It is important to pay attention to the stiffness of the bristles. With a calm state of the oral cavity without pronounced inflammation, as well as for the prevention of gum and tooth diseases, it is necessary to choose a brush with bristles of medium hardness. In inflammatory diseases, soft or ultra soft toothbrushes are used, as a rule, they are already specialized for solving certain oral problems.

✓ Mouth rinses are an essential part of all personal hygiene products. Since ancient times, recipes for preparing all kinds of infusions and decoctions from medicinal herbs and juices have been known. That is why in the modern world one should bet on rinses containing herbal decoctions and natural ingredients. Rinse Forest Balm significantly reduces bleeding gums and reduces the formation of plaque.

A wide variety of rinse aids today allows you to choose a product according to individual needs. In addition, mouthwashes are now not only hygienic in nature, but are preventive agents that act specifically on the gums and avoid many oral problems.

✓ Dental floss (Floss). In addition to brushing with a toothbrush, you should also regularly clean hard-to-reach areas such as interdental spaces. Dental floss is a fiber of the finest nylon twisted threads. To facilitate the sliding properties, the thread is impregnated with a special polymer. There are also threads with additional impregnation (menthol, herbs and any components). Depending on the impregnation, an additional, in addition to hygienic, effect is achieved.

When using flossing, one should not be too zealous with pressure on the gums, as this will undoubtedly cause microtrauma. The whole cleaning process should be as accurate as possible, only then the use of dental floss will be beneficial, not harmful.

Specialist consultation required. It is not a medicinal product. Application does not exempt from visiting the dentist.

Specialist consultation required.

Oral hygiene products – an article from the dental clinic “Ionika”

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Publication date: June 9, 2021

7162

Occupational hygiene and whitening

Contents

• 003

• Electric toothbrushes

• Toothpastes

• Irrigators

• Dental floss (floss)

• Interdental brushes

• Mouth rinses

Many dental and gum diseases are caused by poor oral hygiene. Bacteria that accumulate on enamel and mucous membranes with food debris create a dense protective film that forms persistent plaque in just a few hours. When brushing your teeth 2 times a day, it is almost impossible to destroy this film with a regular brush – plaque remains in the interdental spaces and other hard-to-reach places. To avoid the development of pathogenic processes, more thorough oral hygiene is required using various means and tools.

Manual toothbrushes

A conventional (manual) toothbrush is the most familiar and fairly effective means of oral hygiene. Dense numerous bristles (optimally – synthetic, bacteria multiply less in them) act mechanically on plaque, destroy its structure and remove it from the enamel. The cleaning head covers a large area of ​​the tooth surface during movement, and if you brush your teeth for at least two minutes, you can clean them very well.

For a toothbrush to serve as a reliable and safe oral hygiene tool, it must be properly cleaned and stored:

• wash with antibacterial soap,

• set vertically with the bristles up so that the water does not stagnate,

• store in a glass with a ventilated bottom,

• regularly wash the glass, removing stagnation of water at the bottom,

• do not put the brush into the case when wet (for example, when going on a trip),

• disinfect the brush once a week in a container with rinse aid or in a special sterilizer,

• change to a new one every 2-3 months or more often, depending on the condition of the bristles.

Following the rules of individual oral hygiene, it is important to store your brush separately from others, and not in the same glass. Everyone has their own bacterial balance, and the ingress of microbes from another person can lead to a violation of the microflora of the oral cavity.

Electric toothbrushes

If for one reason or another it is not possible to establish regular high-quality brushing with a regular brush, it can be replaced with an electric one. Such a tool itself makes the necessary number of frequent movements of the cleaning head, so that you can remove plaque completely and without any extra effort.

Toothpastes

The use of toothpaste, gel or powder is a must when brushing your teeth. This means of individual oral hygiene is selected taking into account existing diseases and conditions (periodontitis, caries, enamel sensitivity, etc.). In general, toothpaste has an antiseptic and restorative effect: it contains minerals useful for enamel, extracts of medicinal plants, and abrasive particles can help to remove plaque more thoroughly.

Irrigators

Dentists note that even the most modern toothbrush does not completely remove plaque – its remnants can be regularly observed in the interdental spaces, the area of ​​​​which is about 30% of the entire surface of the teeth. Also, deposits remain in the gum line and especially in the gum pockets. Moreover, with poor oral hygiene, the brush drives food particles into these recesses, provoking inflammation.

An irrigator is a device that creates a jet of water under pressure and flushes out plaque residues from hard-to-reach places. It has a number of advantages over a toothbrush:

• The pressurized water stream has a gentle massage effect and has a beneficial effect on the condition of the gums.

• The irrigator best cleans narrow areas in the construction of bridges, braces and other orthodontic products.

• A properly selected mode of operation and the use of special nozzles provide a preventive and therapeutic effect for inflamed and “loose” gums.

• With the help of an irrigator, it is possible to irrigate the oral cavity not only with water, but also with therapeutic solutions, effectively carrying out therapeutic procedures prescribed by a doctor.

However, despite the high cleaning efficiency, the irrigator does not replace, but complements the toothbrush as a means of individual oral hygiene. Only regular alternate use of both instruments will ensure the complete destruction of pathogenic microflora in the entire oral cavity, significantly reduce the risk of developing diseases, and preserve the natural whiteness and purity of the enamel.

Dental floss (floss)

Dental floss does a good job of mechanically cleaning the interdental spaces. They penetrate between the teeth and, when moving back and forth, remove deposits from the cracks. There are round, for wide gaps, and flat flosses, which are optimal for crowded teeth. Waxed threads will slip through narrow crevices more easily, but unwaxed threads will clean out plaque better.

Interdental brushes

These small and simple tools effectively handle the complex task of cleaning interdental spaces. Penetrating between the teeth, elastic bristles made of nylon or silicone open up like an umbrella and literally sweep away plaque. Due to this action, brushes are more effective than toothpicks and dental floss, and most importantly, less traumatic.

The use of these oral hygiene products is especially recommended when wearing fixed orthodontic systems. A set of brushes of different sizes and shapes (conical, cylindrical, straight and curved) will be indispensable for thorough cleaning of hard-to-reach places.

Mouthwashes

In addition to individual oral hygiene, it is useful to use an antibacterial rinse. It is used after brushing the teeth and has a deodorizing effect, killing the remaining bacteria, having a beneficial effect on the gums and tooth enamel. Rinse your mouth for at least 1 minute every day to keep your mouth clean in another effective way.