Oral Hygiene Aids in Salida, CO

At Relaxation Dental, we educate our patients on the best oral hygiene aids to enhance at-home care and help prevent issues like tooth decay, gum disease, and enamel erosion.

With the right products and techniques, you can keep your teeth and gums healthy between dental visits and reduce your risk of needing restorative treatments.

Recommended Oral Hygiene Aids

1. Toothbrushes: Manual vs. Electric

A good toothbrush is essential for removing plaque and bacteria from your teeth and gums.

• Electric toothbrushes provide superior cleaning by using oscillating or sonic vibrations to break up plaque more effectively.
• Manual toothbrushes are effective when used correctly, with gentle, circular motions for at least two minutes.
• Soft-bristled brushes are recommended to protect enamel and prevent gum irritation.

We can recommend the best toothbrush based on your specific oral health needs, gum sensitivity, and dental work such as crowns or dental implants.

2. Dental Floss & Flossing Alternatives

Flossing removes plaque and food particles between teeth and below the gumline, where toothbrushes can’t reach.

• Traditional floss is highly effective but requires proper technique.
• Floss picks are convenient for on-the-go use.
• Water flossers (like Waterpik®) use a pressurized stream of water to clean between teeth, ideal for patients with braces, dental bridges, or implants.

If you struggle with traditional flossing, we can guide you toward the best alternative to maintain optimal gum health.

3. Mouthwash & Rinses

A therapeutic mouthwash can provide additional protection against cavities, bad breath, and gum disease.

• Fluoride mouthwash strengthens enamel and helps prevent decay.
• Antiseptic mouthwash reduces bacteria and plaque buildup.
• Alcohol-free mouthwash is recommended for patients with sensitive gums or dry mouth.

A rinse is never a substitute for brushing and flossing but can enhance your daily routine when used correctly.

4. Tongue Scrapers

The tongue harbors bacteria that contribute to bad breath and plaque buildup. Using a tongue scraper or brushing your tongue with your toothbrush can:

• Remove bacteria that cause halitosis (bad breath).
• Improve taste sensation.
• Reduce plaque accumulation.

5. Interdental Brushes & Proxabrushes

For patients with braces, dental implants, or wide spaces between teeth, interdental brushes can gently clean hard-to-reach areas without damaging the gums.

• Designed for orthodontic patients or those with periodontal disease.
• Helps clean around dental bridges and crowns more effectively.
• Available in different sizes for customized care.

6. Sugar-Free Gum with Xylitol

Chewing sugar-free gum with xylitol stimulates saliva production, which helps:

• Neutralize acids that cause tooth decay.
• Wash away food particles and bacteria.
• Strengthen enamel by redistributing minerals.

This is a great option for patients who experience dry mouth or frequent cavities.

Customizing Your Oral Hygiene Routine

Every smile is different, which is why we personalize oral hygiene recommendations based on:

• Gum health and sensitivity
• Existing dental work (crowns, bridges, or implants)
• Orthodontic treatment (braces or aligners)
• History of cavities or gum disease

During your routine exam and cleaning, we’ll evaluate your current hygiene routine and suggest improvements to help prevent future dental issues.