1. What’s the best toothpaste to use?
Generally speaking, most toothpastes do the same thing. You want a foamy substance that applies fluoride to the teeth. The main benefits of tooth brushing are mechanical removal of plaque and application of fluoride to the teeth.
The big differences are sensitive-teeth toothpastes, which all work in slightly different ways and Colgate Total which is scientifically proven to be better at plaque control that other toothpastes. In fact, they have a patent, as it contains a special ingredient that helps keep plaque away.
2. What’s the best mouthwash to use?
Most mouthwashes work in exactly the same way. The two main benefits are washing and killing bacteria, and providing fluoride to the teeth. As long as they have fluoride in them, they all work pretty well.
Remember – the best time to use mouthwash is at a completely different time to tooth brushing.
3. What about Corsodyl, is that any good?
Corsodyl is good at providing short term help to manage plaque control, but is in no way meant to help treat gum disease for the long term.
The active ingredient is Chlorhexidine (CHX) and there are many alternatives mouthwashes that have this special ingredient in them.
Be aware that 0.2% Chlorhexidine daily use can cause staining on your teeth, so don’t use it just before or after food or drinks. Always wait at least an hour. In addition, many toothpastes interact with it (making it less effective) so it is better to use it at a completely different time to tooth brushing.
4. What’s the best toothbrush to use?
We always recommend using an electric toothbrush, as it is way more effective at removing plaque. Hands down the Oral B toothbrush is the best.
Phillips Sonicare makes a good one as well, but studies show it’s not as good. I wouldn’t recommend using Colgate Omron.
5. What’s better – floss or interproximal brushes?
This really depends on how big the gaps between your teeth are. For small tight gaps, I would recommend floss and for anything bigger interproximal brushes work better.
