Oral Hygiene Aids

Our doctors may recommend oral hygiene aids to supplement your home care routine and help you avoid future dental problems. We may advise that you use one or more of these aids depending on your oral health needs. For more information about oral hygiene aids in San Jose, California, and to schedule your appointment with our dentists, please contact Cheer Dental at 408-437-1111.

Oral hygiene aids are designed to help you improve your overall oral health and more thoroughly clean your mouth. Common oral hygiene aids include:

• Interdental Cleaners – These are often recommended in addition to regular flossing. These tiny brushes are very gentle on the gums and are effective at cleaning the contours of your teeth between the gums.
• Mouth Rinses – There are two basic types of mouth rinses, cosmetic and therapeutic. Cosmetic rinses are sold over the counter and temporarily suppress bad breath. Many dentists are highly skeptical of cosmetic rinses. Therapeutic rinses are regulated by the FDA and contain active ingredients to reduce bad breath, plaque, and cavities. You may or may not need a prescription to purchase a therapeutic rinse.
• Oral Irrigators – These devices clean debris from your mouth and below the gum line by spraying jets of water into the gum pockets. They are highly effective at reducing the possibility that you will develop periodontal disease, but are not an adequate substitute for brushing, flossing, or regular preventive checkups. Common oral irrigators include Water Jets and Waterpiks.
• Rubber Tip Stimulators – These oral hygiene aids remove plaque from around the gum line and stimulate blood flow to the gum. To use a rubber tip stimulator, trace it gently along the outer and inner gum line at least once each day. Rinse the device off to remove plaque that accumulates, and replace the tip as soon as it starts to look worn. Store this device in a cool, dry place.
• Tongue Cleaners – This appliance removes the buildup of bacteria, fungi, and food debris from the tongue surface. Tongue cleaners also reduce the likelihood that a systemic disease (such as diabetes, heart disease, respiratory disease, and stroke) will be affected by the bacteria in your mouth. Clean your tongue before you brush to avoid ingesting fungi and bacteria.

We welcome you to contact our office for more information about oral hygiene aids.