Flossing Archives - Crosstown Dental Hershey

While we all need to care for our teeth, there’s no one product we all must use. Yes, we all need to use toothpaste, a toothbrush, floss, and mouthwash. But each of us has specific needs to keep our smile looking great. So how do you find the right oral health products for yourself and your family?

A brief walk through the oral health care aisle at any store can overwhelm you with the number of choices available. How do you know what to choose?

Features Oral Health Products Should Have

Any product you choose should have the American Dental Association (ADA) seal of approval.
Opt for products that you like and will want to use.
Choose toothbrushes, floss, and (if desired) a tongue scraper that fits comfortably in your hand and mouth.

The Toothbrush: Electric or manual

For Manual Brushes:

Unless told by your dentist otherwise, opt for a soft bristle brush
Choose a toothbrush head that easily fits in your mouth
Select a toothbrush that is comfortable to hold. After all, you should brush your teeth for two minutes every time.
Expect to purchase a new brush every 3 to 4 months.

For Electric Brushes:

Look for one with a timer to make brushing for 2 minutes easier.
An electric brush with a pressure sensor will let you know if you are brushing too hard.
Again, opt for a soft bristle brush. Hard or firm bristle toothbrushes will do more harm to your gums than good.
Choosing a rotating brush or a sonic one is up to you. Both are equal when it comes to effectiveness. If you don’t know which would suit you best, talk to our Crosstown Dental Group Hershey team for their recommendations.

Toothpaste

Look at its purpose. Not all toothpaste is the same. Some are for children, others for a brighter smile, and others for sensitive teeth. Toothpaste containing baking soda helps whiten teeth. Use a paste with potassium nitrate or strontium chloride if you have sensitive teeth. If you aren’t sure what purpose your toothpaste needs to accomplish, talk to the BSDC team.
Choose a toothpaste with fluoride. A fluoridated toothpaste is more effective at preventing cavities and gingivitis while strengthening your tooth enamel.
Avoid harsh additives and sweeteners. Some manufacturers use abrasive compounds like sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS), which can irritate the gums. Others may add sweeteners that actually cause cavities.
Flavor – If you don’t like the taste of the toothpaste, you won’t want to brush. Finding the right flavor may take some time, but be persistent.

Mouthwash

Look for an antiseptic mouthwash that contains chlorhexidine, which prevents plaque buildup.
Choose a mouthwash that contains fluoride to prevent tooth decay and gum disease.
If purchasing mouthwash for children, do not buy one that contains alcohol.

Dental Floss

Available in waxed and unwaxed, as well as flossing pics or water pics.
Identify your needs. Some floss is best for sensitive teeth, others for closely placed teeth, and some people have more space between their teeth. Moreover, people with braces need specific floss. We can help you determine what is best for you.

Have questions about the best dental products for your healthiest smile? Don’t hesitate to talk to us. We are here to help.

We all know it is important to take care of our teeth. But this doesn’t mean every child enjoys the task or even has the dexterity to do it well. Instead, it is a skill that must be practiced often to learn how to clean their teeth effectively. Brushing one’s teeth as an adult is not considered a big deal. But for kids, learning how to keep their teeth looking their best is an important skill. Children take their cues from parents, and that’s where you come into the picture.

7 Tips for Getting Your Kids to Brush Their Teeth

1. Start young.

Young children do not have the motor skills to brush or floss their teeth. It is up to you to do it for them and then model it so they can watch. Begin brushing your child’s teeth when they are an infant. There are many products available for this task. As your child ages, you can begin letting them do it themselves. Let them do it themselves first, then take their brush and do a second brush. This way, they get in the habit, but you are following up to ensure all the teeth are cleaned.

2. The right tools.

Be sure your child has a kid’s toothbrush so that it will fit comfortably in their mouth and hand. This will make it easier for them to brush. Make brushing palatable by purchasing kid-friendly toothpaste for them. If they aren’t opposed to the flavor of the toothpaste, they will be more willing to brush. Opt for fluoridated toothpaste. This will give them extra protection, so they clean and protect their teeth every time they brush.

3. Set the example.

Children are natural mimics. If your kids see you brushing and flossing, they will be more inclined to do it. Consider making it a game. Stand facing your child and challenge them to mirror your motions. Then, while brushing/flossing, make silly faces for them to copy or pat your head with one hand or any other actions that come to mind. Remember, the goal is to brush for two minutes, minimum, so keeping them engaged will help. Plus, it makes for some fun memories!

4. Practice on toys.

Does your child have a favorite stuffed animal or doll with teeth? Then, let them practice brushing the toy’s teeth. Show them the proper steps and talk them through brushing. Give praise and encouragement as they learn and improve.

5. Use media.

Check out YouTube for videos that teach kids proper brushing techniques. Numerous choices are available, so finding something that engages, educates, and entertains shouldn’t be difficult.

6. Tell/read a story.

Let your child choose the book and read to them as they brush. You may need to pause to ensure they are brushing correctly, but a story is a great way to help them stay on task.

7. Play a song.

It is important to brush for at least two minutes. Children have a hard time tracking time. Listening to a song- be sure it is long enough- makes it easier. And if it happens to be a song they enjoy, even better.

Being a parent is a blessing, but it is also a responsibility. We have many things to teach our children, but seeing them smile as they master each challenge is worth it. Be sure your children have a smile they can be proud of by teaching them proper dental hygiene. If you have any questions or concerns about dental health, please talk to one of our team members at Crosstown Dental Hershey. We’re here to help.

Shopping for Oral Health Products