Dear Dr Mady:
I have so many unanswered questions when it comes to choosing oral care products like toothbrushes and toothpaste. What do you think? A Faithful Reader
Dear Faithful Reader,
When shopping for oral care products it is extremely common for one to become confused with the great variety available on the market today. A good place to start is with recognition of a dental association seal such as ADA, ODA or CDA, on packages. Products that carry one or more of these seals include toothbrushes, toothpastes, mouthwashes, flosses, inter-dental cleaners and the list can go on.
With respect to your tooth brush, it should be replaced approximately every 3 months or sooner if the bristles appear frayed or severely worn. Always purchase a soft or ultra-soft bristle brush as the medium or hard bristle type may cause unnecessary damage or wear to both your teeth and gums. The bristles on your brush should be polished when they are made so that they are gentle on tissues. Use a size and shape that allows you to clean all surfaces of your teeth comfortably. Children may wear out their toothbrushes quicker than adults.
Shopping for floss and other related items can be even more frustrating. When it comes to floss, choose a type, whether waxed or un-waxed, that adapts the best to your teeth and gums. Waxed flosses seem to be more gentle for the most part and they are available now in thick or thin versions. As far as mouthwashes go, ones that contain antibacterial qualities are best for rinsing and gargling. Other oral cleaning devices and stimulators may be prescribed by your own dentist specifically to suit your own dental needs. Ask your dentist or hygienist what they think.
Any questions for Dr. Mady can be e-mailed to drmady@drmady.com and also visit his blog at www.dentalden.com (dental education network)
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This column is reprinted with the permission of the author and The Windsor Star. “Ask the Dentist” is written by Windsor dentist (and ECDS member), Dr. David Mady Jr.. The column appears the first Thursday of each month in the Windsor Star. Readers with questions can write to “Ask The Dentist”, c/o The Windsor Star, 167 Ferry St., Windsor Ontario, N9A 4M5