General dentistry practices are focused on the long-term prevention of oral health problems for their patient to help them avoid the need for restorative care, which is more invasive and expensive. One way they help with prevention is by recommending effective toothbrushes and toothpaste.
Choosing the right toothbrush and toothpaste can make a big difference in the prevention of cavities, gum disease, and other oral health concerns. This overview offers insights into the most highly recommended toothbrushes and toothpaste that are available over the counter or online for patients to use.
There are numerous types of toothbrushes. Most general dentists recommend using an electric toothbrush with soft bristles. This helps clean teeth thoroughly without placing too much pressure on the gums. However, the recommended toothbrush depends on the patient's specific goals. For example, the recommended toothbrush for a child with braces is certain to be different than one for an adult without braces.
The toothbrushes and toothpaste that a dentist recommends depend upon the status of the patient's health, specific risks they have, and the patient’s goals. For example, a patient with good oral health and a low risk of gum disease or cavities and who wishes to brighten their smile may benefit more from whitening toothpaste, whereas someone with weakened enamel may need a gentler, more restorative toothpaste. Most dentists recommend a toothpaste that contains some level of fluoride as it helps to strengthen the enamel.
It is important to discuss the specific type of toothpaste your dentist recommends with them specifically as they may have a different recommendation based upon your needs and goals.
It is also important to brush the proper way. This should involve brushing with the toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to the gums and in small strokes (about tooth-wide). It is best to spend approximately 30 seconds per quadrant of the mouth (four quadrants), so two minutes minimum for each brushing session. Avoid scrubbing the gums too hard as doing so could damage the gums and lead to gum recession over time.
Mouthwash and flossing should also be a part of every patient’s daily oral care routine. Be sure to speak with a dentist about how often to use mouthwash and floss and what mouthwash and floss are best to use. Check-up visits with a general dentist every four to six months can also help to reduce the risk of oral health concerns.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: General Dentistry Services in Santa Monica, CA
Once our team has had an opportunity to examine the condition of your oral health and discuss your specific goals, we will be able to make toothbrush and toothpaste recommendations tailored to your needs. We encourage you to call our friendly and professional team today to schedule a general dentistry check-up.
Request an appointment or call Pacific View Smile Center at 310-304-1854 for an appointment in our Santa Monica office.
Although practitioners of general dentistry talk about the harmful effects of sugar all the time, we all continue to consume it. This could be due to addiction or a lack of self-control. Sugar has many negative impacts on general health, but it also has a variety of repercussions on the teeth and gums. Since your…
General dentistry focuses on preventative dental treatments that help keep your teeth and gums healthy. Keeping your mouth healthy carries over to the rest of your body because dental problems like gum disease and tooth decay can significantly impact your general health. General dentistry also includes preventative treatments that address issues like tooth decay and…
General dentistry helps to keep your mouth healthy with preventative treatments like teeth cleanings. It addresses issues that develop in your mouth. Regardless of how well a person takes care of their teeth, they might become damaged or discolored due to factors like trauma to the face or taking medication like tetracycline antibiotics.Veneers are one…
With all the different specialties in dentistry, it is hard to know what is handled by your general dentist and what is handled by a specialist. This makes it more difficult than it should be to figure out who to consult when you have a problem or potential issue with your oral health. To help…
Wondering how a general dentist can support your oral wellness? Read on to learn more. A journey toward optimal oral health is like going through a maze. Every decision you make affects your health in many ways. Your guide on this path is the general dentist, directing your steps regarding preventive care, routine check-ups, and…