It cannot be said too often, you need the correct tools to do a job properly.
The adage holds true when talking about oral health: you won't get the results you want without using the best equipment.
Overview of essential dental accessories: Aside from traditional toothbrushes there are many tools that help a thorough oral hygiene regime.
Flossing: this is an indispensable complement to daily brushing.
The use of floss (silk or nylon) helps to prevent tooth and gum inflammation by removing the plaque that accumulates in between the teeth, areas that are difficult to reach with only a toothbrush.
Floss at least once per day.
If you find flossing tricky, buy a brand that comes with a holder.
The flossing should be carried out carefully to avoid the risk of damage to the gums.
Sticks or inter dental brushes: For people with missing teeth or dentures leaving spaces that can't be reached when brushing, sticks or brushes can remove the inter dental plaque found at the base of the teeth in these larger spaces, and also stimulate the gums.
Rinse them after each use, as you would with a regular toothbrush.
Water jet: This device is used to remove plaque, food debris whilst simultaneously offering a massage for the gums.
When the location of debris is inaccessible to a normal brush, the water pressure can dislodge it.
However, it does not kill bacteria, so it should only be used as a complement to brushing.
The water jet can be particularly useful for those with implants, dentures or braces.
Braces Brush: Those who wear braces must use a special brush, supplied by the orthodontist.
This brush is different from traditional toothbrushes: it is bigger and harder.
It is sometimes known as a Christmas tree brush.
Disclosing Tablets: These use a harmless vegetable dye to stain the plaque, usually red.
This allows you to see where brushing must be intensified.
You will know that plaque is present in any areas that remain coloured.
This can be used from time to time to ensure that the brushing technique is working effectively.
Of course, the normal brush remains indispensable and brushing should be carried out at least three times a day, after meals.
It can be worth paying a little extra to ensure that you have a high quality product.
The hardness of the bristles can be down to personal preference, so experiment to find the best choice for you.
Electric models are a great innovation and can help to make your brushing regime complete.
It is important to change the head regularly to ensure that you get consistent results, once every three months is about average.
An electric toothbrush is not always convenient, for instance, whilst travelling.
It is a good idea to have both manual and electric brushes in stock to let you look after your teeth in different circumstances.
The use of home dental equipment does not negate the need to pay regular visits to the dentist's surgery.
Whilst your dentist can obviously identify and treat any more serious problems, he/she can also advise upon the best use of home equipment to ensure an effective care plan is put in place.