Dental Hygiene Recommendations From Your Dentist
We recommend products that are shown to be the best based on research studies, not because we are paid or have received items for free. In some cases similar products are available, so please see our comments to help you find the best products for your dental health.
Toothbrush
A good toothbrush is your most important tool to prevent decay and promote good oral health. Look for a brush with soft bristles so they are extra gentle on your gums.
Examples:
Nimbus toothbrushes are a great example of a soft-bristled brush. The bristles should be so soft that you do not feel them poking or scratching your gums at all. Look for any brand of toothbrush with soft bristles like these.
For an example of a soft-bristled brush with a bamboo handle, see the World's Softest 20,000 Bristle Toothbrush.
If you prefer an electric toothbrush like Sonicare or Oral B, still focus on finding a head with soft bristles. As long your brush is removing plaque, it doesn’t matter if it’s electric or manual.
How to brush:
We recommend twice-daily brushing with a soft-bristled brush to maintain good oral health. Take the time to brush each tooth, especially the teeth in the back that are harder to reach. Brush gently to protect your gums.
Tip: Don’t forget to replace your toothbrush every three months! At the end of three months, it should look just like a new toothbrush. If the bristles are bent or frayed, brush more gently.
Toothpaste
We recommend a toothpaste, tooth tab or tooth gel with fluoride. If your toothpaste has baking soda, brush gently to protect your enamel.
Examples:
Look for a toothpaste, tooth tab or tooth gel with fluoride like Colgate Cavity Protection. There are many options for patients to choose from.
If you prefer tooth tabs or a refillable option, Bite has a Fluoride Toothpaste Bit.
Elementa Tooth Gel is Dr. Alleman’s favorite.
Did you know: many brands offer free ways to recycle their toothpaste tubes, toothbrushes and other oral health products. View participating brands on Terracycle.
Floss
We recommend flossing at least one a day. Technique is more important than product, so find any brand or style of floss that works for you.
How to floss:
Gently floss between the gum and each tooth, so after the floss is between your teeth, up to the left for the first tooth and then to the right for the second. Don’t forget your gum behind your last molar. Use enough floss that each tooth is flossed with a clean segment.
Mouth Rinse
Many mouth rinses are acidic and can dry your mouth over time. You can still enjoy the short term benefits of fresher breath, but over long-term use these benefits may be offset because your mouth is dry. We recommend Elementa Mouth Rinse because it freshens your breath while also improving your long-term oral health.
Elementa Products
We recommend Elementa toothgel, mouth rinse and dental mints to our patients because they have been shown to prevent decay and reduce sensitivity. Elementa products use nano silvers to balance the pH of your mouth to create an environment that reduces biofilm and promotes healthy teeth and gums. Learn more on Elementa’s website.
Questions? Contact us at office@allemancenter.com or (801) 717-9860.
