Basic Hygiene Dental Instruments

Oral health begins with cleaning and maintaining your teeth and gums daily. Doing so reduces the risk of diseases and bad odors entering the mouth. Several instruments should be used daily to clean teeth and gums.

Toothbrush

• A toothbrush consists of a head of tightly clustered bristles, attached to a long handle for maneuvering. A toothbrush removes food and plaque left on the teeth and gums. People can either use manual or electric toothbrushes. Toothpaste is used in tandem with toothbrushes.

Toothpaste

• Toothpaste is available in gels, powders or pastes that help remove plaque on the teeth and gums. Toothpaste is placed on the bristles of a toothbrush. Toothpaste can contain agents that can whiten teeth, strengthen gums, and abolish bad breath.

Floss

• Floss is created using thin strands of nylon or plastic. Floss removes food that's trapped between teeth, as well as the small film of bacteria that covers teeth. The American Dental Association recommends that people floss daily.

Mouthwash

• Mouthwash contains water, alcohol and cleansing agents as the primary ingredients. Mouthwash helps reduce plaque, mask and control bad odor, whiten teeth, and minimize gingivitis. Your dentist may advise you to use mouthwash daily depending on your dental needs.