Daily oral hygiene is undeniably important for maintaining oral and dental health. However, with the abundance of modern oral care products, it’s easy to get lost. Many people wonder what the basic daily tools recommended by dentists are.
Toothbrush and Toothpaste
It is recommended to brush your teeth twice a day for about two minutes each time using a toothbrush with soft bristles and a small head. Specialists advise using gentle circular motions to effectively remove soft plaque and maintain gum health. The Lithuanian Dental Chamber recommends that adults use toothpaste containing 1450 ppm fluoride. Apply 1–2 cm of toothpaste on the toothbrush. After brushing, spit out the remaining toothpaste and rinse with a small amount of water. In the evening, after brushing, avoid eating or drinking anything except water before going to bed.
Interdental Care
To maintain oral health, it is necessary not only to brush your teeth but also to clean the spaces between teeth, since about 40% of the tooth surface is not cleaned by brushing alone. Interdental care can be performed using various tools, which your dentist can recommend specifically for you. Some of these include:
- Dental floss
- Interdental brushes
- Oral irrigator
Dental Floss
Used to remove large food debris between teeth. Various types of floss, such as expandable floss, are recommended for maintaining cleanliness between teeth when you have crowns, implants, or are wearing orthodontic appliances.
Interdental Brushes
One of the most effective tools for removing soft plaque between teeth. Brushes vary in size and handle shape. Your dentist or hygienist can advise on the best size for your interdental spaces.
Oral Irrigator
A rapidly growing oral care tool, recommended for interdental cleaning for patients with crowns, bridges, implants, or wearing orthodontic appliances (e.g., braces). Irrigators come in various designs but generally include: a water reservoir, a control handle (often with adjustable water pressure levels), and several replaceable tips (so each family member can have their own). The concentrated water stream effectively cleans areas difficult to reach with a toothbrush or floss.
If you notice bad breath, bleeding gums, cavities, or other oral health issues, contact an oral care specialist immediately. They can recommend the most appropriate treatment and advise on which tools and methods to use to maintain your and your family’s oral health.
