Dentists all have different theories on what you should do to take care of your teeth at home.
Dr. Trudeau has put together his own official guide for you, so you’ll know how what toothbrush to use, when to floss, or what mouthwash to use.
If you follow this guide, you will most certainly reduce the amount of money you spend on corrective dental work.
Brushing
Brushing frequency
Do a really good job brushing (and flossing) once a day.
Most people do a poor job several times per day, missing some areas, and over brushing other areas.
If you get a lot of cavities – brushing after every meal and every time you consume sugar is super important.
The toothbrush to use
While many people can do an adequate job with a good-quality manual toothbrush, studies have shown that electric toothbrushes such as the Braun Oral-B get the job done better!
It does a great job cleaning.
It’s affordable.
It’s rechargeable.
You can buy the professional model at our office, or find other models online. Amazon has one for under $50, or you can pick up a two-pack at Costco for under $100.
Flossing
Flossing frequency
I don’t really need to floss everyday do I?
Most people don’t floss daily. That doesn’t mean they shouldn’t!
The patients we have that do floss daily find they have fewer dental problems, fresher breath, less physical ailments such as heart disease and less gum sensitivity.
Flossing alternatives
Toothpicking devices work well for those that have problems with traditional flossing.
- Proxabrush Go-Betweens
- Gum Stimulators
- Toothpick holders
- Floss picks
You can pick these up at common drug stores or when you come in for your appointment.
From left to right: Proxabrush Go-Between, Gum Stimulator, toothpick holder.
Mouthwash
Does it work?
Most mouthwashes are minimally effective!
Mouthwash kills bacteria. That’s true.
The problem is, it doesn’t do too well when it comes to killing bacteria in the places you need them killed: namely underneath the gums and between your teeth.
Some mouthwashes are actually harmful to the teeth, and contain alcohol and abrasives.
The best advice is to use limited amounts of these and do a great job brushing and flossing!
Teeth cleanings
Frequency
Regular cleanings with our hygiene staff will help you catch and correct these issues. 2-4 cleanings per year are a great idea.
