Patient Education / Dental Education Library
Water picks use powerful tiny bursts of water to blast away food particles and debris in hard-to-reach areas of your mouth. While useful as a supplement, they may not be as effective as traditional flossing for plaque removal, but are especially helpful for people with braces or sensitive gums.
Dental floss comes in a variety of colors, materials, and flavors. Waxed varieties slide through tight spaces more easily, while dental tape works well for people with larger gaps or bridge work. Floss holders are also available for those with dexterity problems or arthritis.
The pharmacy shelves are filled with over-the-counter dental products of varying quality. Whatever product you choose, look for the American Dental Association’s Seal of Acceptance. Avoid using over-the-counter scaling devices or picks, which can injure your teeth and soft tissue.
Anyone who participates in a sport with a significant risk of injury should wear a mouth protector. Mouth guards cushion blows to the face, minimize broken teeth, and protect soft tissues — especially important for those wearing braces or fixed bridge work.
With so many toothbrush designs available, the most important thing is that you brush at least 2–3 times a day. Our dental team highly recommends a mechanical (electric) toothbrush for efficient plaque removal. For manual brushes, look for a compact head with very soft, rounded bristles.
