Monday, November 7, 2016

What should I know when buying dental supplies for my family?

            When you walk down the ‘oral care’ aisle at any store, the number of options can be intimidating. There are so many different brands and variations of similar products. Hopefully we can help simplify the process.

What kind of tooth brush should I buy?
  • Do yourself a favor and get an electric tooth brush with a 2 minute timer. It will reduce the chances of tooth decay, gum disease, gum recession. Chances are it will save you thousands of dollars during your life.
  • If you absolutely can’t stand an electric brush, make sure it is a soft bristle brush.
  • The expensive brushes are great, but you don’t have to buy the most expensive brush to get a solid brush. However, remember that you get what you pay for and if it only costs $10 it probably is inexpensive for a reason.
  • Use a different brush or brush head after you are sick. You don’t want to increase the risk of spreading anything bad to your family.

What kind of tooth paste should I buy?
  • Look for the ADA approval on the box. If it has that, it has been put through a serious screening process to earn it.
  • If you use sensitivity toothpaste, you should use it twice a day and every day. It is more effective when used consistently.
  • If you want whiter teeth, toothpaste isn’t going to make a huge difference. Whitening toothpaste is more abrasive and reduces surface staining but does not whiten like bleaching your teeth can.
  • Use a flavor that you like. It will make it more likely to brush consistently and for long enough.

What kind of mouth rinse should I buy?
  • Only let your children use mouth rinse made for adults if they can consistently spit it out after using. But there are some rinses specifically designed for kids.
  • I usually recommend alcohol free because it is less abrasive to your gums.
  • Use a mouth rinse with fluoride. It reduces the potential for cavities.

Like anything else, if you are not sure what product may work best in your situation then just give us a call. We are happy to walk you through the different choices in more detail.

For more information visit www.dentistwestchester.com.

Lee T. Brown, DDS

Brown and Kupper, DDS

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