Your Complete Guide to Optimal Dental Care

Choosing the Right Toothbrush

Electric or Manual?

Whist both options can be effective with proper technique, electric toothbrushes offer superior plaque removal and are our top recommendation for maintaining optimal oral health. They take the guesswork out of brushing with built-in timers and pressure sensors.

For Electric Toothbrush Users:
The Oral-B iO range stands out as our team’s preferred choice. These brushes combine innovative technology with exceptional cleaning power. You’ll find various models to suit different budgets, and there are frequently special offers online. The iO brushes come with a 2-pin charging adapter, so remember to purchase a UK mains adapter if you don’t have a shaving socket at home.

For Manual Toothbrush Users:
If you prefer a manual toothbrush, look for one with a small to medium-sized head and soft to medium bristles. This combination provides effective cleaning while being gentle on your gums and enamel.

Replacing Your Toothbrush:

Whether you use an electric or manual toothbrush, replacement is essential approximately every 2-3 months. Even if your brush appears to be in good condition after four months, the bristles will have lost their effectiveness and won’t provide the cleaning action your teeth need.

Selecting the Right Toothpaste:

Fluoride is the key ingredient to look for in any toothpaste. It significantly helps prevent tooth decay and strengthens enamel. The appropriate fluoride concentration varies by age:

Children: No less than 1000ppm (parts per million)
Adults: Between 1350-1500ppm

In certain cases, your dentist may prescribe higher concentration formulations for specific dental concerns.

Interdental Cleaning: The Often Overlooked Essential

What to Use:
Interdental cleaning can seem overwhelming with so many options available. For most adults, interdental brushes are the most effective choice. These come in various sizes, and we recommend having your dental hygienist determine the correct sizes for your specific needs.

While dental floss is valuable, it is often not substantial enough to thoroughly clean the spaces between teeth. Your hygienist can advise on the best combination of products for your mouth.

How Often to Clean Between Teeth:
Daily interdental cleaning is essential. Even when you can’t see or feel debris between your teeth, a biofilm of bacteria begins forming immediately after brushing. Left unchecked, this can lead to gingivitis (inflamed, bleeding gums) and eventually progress to more serious gum disease.

Which Teeth Need Interdental Cleaning:
Every space between your teeth requires cleaning. If you struggle with certain areas, schedule an appointment with your hygienist for personalised guidance. Everyone’s mouth is different, and custom recommendations will help you maintain optimal oral health.

Post-Brushing Best Practices

Should You Rinse After Brushing?
No – at least not for 20 minutes after brushing. When you immediately rinse with water, you wash away the active ingredients in your toothpaste before they can provide their full benefit. Simply spit out excess toothpaste and avoid rinsing or eating/drinking for at least 20 minutes.

Do You Need Mouthwash?
Whilst mouthwash can be a helpful addition to your oral hygiene routine, it’s secondary to thorough brushing and interdental cleaning. If you choose to use mouthwash, don’t use it immediately after brushing for the same reason you shouldn’t rinse with water – it can wash away beneficial ingredients from your toothpaste.

For optimal results, use mouthwash at a different time of day from your brushing routine, such as after lunch or mid-afternoon.

Final Thoughts

Remember that personalised dental care recommendations are always best. During your next appointment, do not hesitate to ask your dentist or hygienist for specific advice tailored to your unique oral health needs.

“This guide was created by the Cheltenham and Cotswold Dental Team to help our patients maintain their best possible oral health between appointments.”