When caring for your teeth at home, it is often helpful to use an oral hygiene aid. Oral hygiene aids are designed to help you keep your mouth free from bacteria and debris, and can be beneficial in ensuring that your teeth and gums remain healthy. To learn more about oral hygiene aids in Murray, Utah, and schedule your appointment with Dr. Andrew Smith, call us today at 801-262-6661.
There are a wide variety of oral hygiene aids available for your use. When you visit Wasatch Gentle Dental, our dentist may recommend one or more types of oral hygiene aids to meet your needs. Here are a few of the most common types of oral hygiene aids:
- Dental Floss – this is the most common type of cleaning device used between the teeth and below the gum line. It works to remove food particles and plaque from between the teeth. You should floss daily.
- Interdental Cleaners – these tiny brushes are gentle on your gums, and effectively clean the contours of your teeth between the gums.
- Mouth Rinses – there are two basic types of mouth rinses available – cosmetic and therapeutic. Cosmetic rinses are sold over the counter to temporarily suppress bad breath. Therapeutic rinses may or may not require a prescription, and contain active ingredients to help reduce plaque, cavities, and bad breath. Use a mouth rinse after you brush your teeth.
- Oral Irrigators – Oral Irrigators such as Water Jets and Waterpiks are used to clean debris below the gum line. They work by spraying tiny jets of water into the gum pockets, and are effective in lowering your risk of gum disease. Do not use an oral irrigator in place of brushing and flossing, and do not skip your annual cleanings and exams, as this will help remove deeper debris than an oral irrigator.
- Rubber Tip Stimulators – this device is an excellent tool for removing plaque from around the gum line and stimulating blood flow to the gums. Simply trace the rubber tip along the outer and inner gum line to remove plaque from your teeth.
- Tongue Cleaners – these are specialized devices designed specifically to remove the buildup of bacteria, fungi, and food debris from the tongue surface.
- Toothbrushes – there are many types of toothbrushes are available. Our dentist recommend using an electric toothbrush, as the vibrating or rotary motion of the device helps to dislodge plaque and food particles. If using a manual toothbrush, use a brush with soft bristles. You should brush after each meal, or at least twice a day.
For more information about oral hygiene aids, please contact our practice.