With all of the stressors of daily life, it can be easy to let dental health go by the wayside. It can be embarrassing to admit that we don’t always brush our teeth for the recommended two minutes, that we sometimes forget to floss, or maybe that we don’t even own any — but realistically everyone has been there.
This is something everyone can relate to, regardless of age or oral health routine. But we can all still turn this around, and what better time to do so than the start of a new year? One of the easiest and most refreshing steps we can take at the start of a new year is updating our personal health routines with some new products, all recommended by family dentists. We’ve gathered the top eight products and services you need to add to your oral hygiene routine this year — and there are products for the whole family here.
1. Electric Toothbrushes for the Whole Family
The decision between an electric toothbrush and a regular one really varies from person to person. It’s important to take into consideration your lifestyle and personal dental hygiene needs.
If you’re looking to tackle a specific oral health issue, an electric toothbrush may be for you. Kids can benefit from using an electric toothbrush, too, and what better way to make dental hygiene more fun for them? An electric toothbrush is definitely a financial investment, but consider it an investment in your health — most of them last for extended periods of time, too.
Family dentists recommend the Philips Sonicare for Kids Electric Toothbrush for kids, and the Philips Sonicare Electric Toothbrush for adults.
2. Mouthwash
Much like making the decision about what toothbrush is right for you, choosing a mouthwash often requires the same considerations. A common dilemma faced in making this decision is the choice between alcohol and non-alcohol mouthwash. Both types of mouthwash come with their own benefits, but ultimately alcohol-free mouthwash is considered the safer and more natural option. It’s important to weigh all of your personal hygiene needs to decide which one is best for you, and Biotène is one of many great options.
3. Superfoods
Maybe not a product you were expecting to find on this list, but superfoods actually offer a lot of benefits for your smile. Those benefits include preventing oral diseases, plaque, and providing you with nutrients like vitamin C, vitamin D, calcium, and more. Dental professionals like to refer to superfoods as natural toothbrushes. Cheese, celery, yogurt and fresh fruits are just a few of the nutrient-packed foods you can pick up for the family. And yes, dark chocolate is a superfood, too.
4. Dental Probiotic Gum
Probiotics also fall into the “superfoods” category, so this one’s a double whammy. Along with contributing to oral and gut health, this product keeps your breath smelling extra fresh. A triple whammy, perhaps? Bacteria is something else that most people experience, regardless of age or dental health routine — probiotic gum can change that!
5. Soft Dental Picks
Soft dental picks make it a little easier to reach those not-so-easy-to-reach spots when brushing your teeth. Both kids and adults can benefit from adding this extra step to their dental hygiene routine, along with or even in place of dental floss, if you prefer.
Safe for kids and for adults, you can find Gum Soft Picks on Amazon.
6. Floss
Of course, floss is still a classic product encouraged by all dentists, but do you always have it on hand to use regularly? If not, it may be a great time to start and make it a part of your daily routine, or at least use it as you remember. We get it — remembering all of these steps in your routine can be a challenge at first, but as long as you’re putting in the effort, you’re well on your way to amping up your smile. Standard floss or flossers will get the job done.
Oral-B Glide Pro-Health Dental Floss is a favorite of dental professionals. For kids, try Plackers Kids Dental Floss Picks.
7. (Safe) Whitening Options
There are a few different routes you can take if you are interested in whiter teeth. Professional teeth whitening services are available and extremely effective — they can make your teeth appear up to ten shades whiter. However, if you’re more inclined to try this out at home, whitening strips are another safe option. It’s best to discuss these options with your dentist to decide which may be right for you. You can find Crest 3D White Strips Professional White and other safe options at Target.
8. A Dentist for the Whole Family
It’s easy and completely fine to find specialists such as pediatric dentists, but it’s even easier on you and your family to see a family dentist who can take care of everyone. This takes the stress off of planning regular visits — it can be a one-stop-shop for the whole family (and in 2021, one of the safest options!).
It’s time to take charge of your family’s oral health. Investing in these products is an investment in your health, and a brighter smile.
Need further recommendations or have more specific questions about your family’s oral health? Contact Dr. Wakim today!