Toothbrushes, Toothpastes, and Floss (Oh, my!)

We love it when patients ask us questions, and we get lots of them every day.  “Which toothpaste is best?” “Is this one better than that one?”  “Which mouthwash is good for my kids?”

I took this picture at the Shoprite in Chester. 

The next time you are in the supermarket or pharmacy, walk down the health & beauty aisle, and look at the abundance of options available to take care of your teeth.  For floss alone there are so many options.  Is it waxed, un-waxed, rope-like, flavored, unflavored, does it have a handle, etc. You get the idea.  For every dental product available for you to buy, there are so many choices it can be overwhelming that you may not know where to start.

When patients come visit us for their cleanings the topic of what they should be using at home comes up at some point.  Depending on your needs we will recommend specific oral hygiene products that will help you keep your mouth as healthy as possible between your visits.  However, the simplest answer I can give anyone is this: “Whatever works for you.”  -WHAT?

What I mean is I want you to brush your teeth at least twice a day, I want you to floss once a day, and I want you to use mouthwash.  I want you to use whichever toothbrush, toothpaste, floss, and mouthwash that you like and will use.  Let’s be honest.  There are very few people in the world who actively enjoy brushing their teeth; the majority of people view it as a necessary evil that must be done.  We only get to see you a few times a year for about an hour each time.  We need you to take care of your teeth and gums at home on a regular basis; and you are more likely to take better care of them at home using products you like.

Pickle-flavored floss? Yup!

So, if you have toothpaste that tastes a little funny, try a new one.  You don’t like the type of floss you have? Come by the office, and we will give you a couple of different types for you to try.  We’ve got plenty (except for pickle-flavored).

If you ever have any questions or comments we would love to hear them below; or you can always call us at 973-543-6666.  

Thanks for reading!

-Paul Ferraioli, DMD