7 Adjuncts that can Optimize Your Dental Routine

#1 | Toothbrushes

You may not realize it but the type of toothbrush you use can have a huge impact on how well you remove debris and bacteria from your teeth.  Regardless of whether you use an electric toothbrush or a manual toothbrush, the same rules for replacement applies.  It is recommended that you replace your electric toothbrush head or manual brush head every 3 to 4 months.  There are many options of toothbrushes and it may be confusing.  To help you make the best decision, here is some information regarding the various types:

a. Manual Toothbrush

• Use: Regular daily brushing.
• Features: Comes in different bristle types (soft, medium, hard) and head sizes. Soft bristles are generally recommended by dentists as they are gentler on the gums and teeth.
• Best for: General oral hygiene, suitable for most people. Soft-bristle toothbrushes are ideal for protecting enamel and avoiding gum irritation.

b. Electric Toothbrush

• Use: Provides more effective plaque removal, especially for those who struggle with manual brushing techniques.
• Features: Powered by a motor, it may have oscillating or vibrating bristles. Some have built-in timers to ensure proper brushing duration.
• Best for: Individuals with limited dexterity (arthritis, elderly), children, or people who prefer extra help in achieving thorough cleaning.

c. Sulcabrush

• Use: Focused cleaning along the gumline.
• Features: Has a single tuft of bristles for precision cleaning.
• Best for: Targeting plaque and debris along the gum line, especially in patients prone to gum disease or inflammation.

d. End-Tuft Toothbrush

• Use: Cleaning hard-to-reach areas like the back molars or around braces and implants.
• Features: Has a small, single tuft of bristles at the end of a long handle.
• Best for: People with braces, implants, or wisdom teeth where larger brushes can’t easily reach.

e. Orthodontic Toothbrush

• Use: Designed specifically for those with braces.
• Features: V-shaped bristles to clean around brackets and wires.
• Best for: Orthodontic patients who need specialized cleaning around braces.

f. Chewable Toothbrush

• Use: Portable, disposable toothbrush for quick cleaning without water or toothpaste.
• Features: Often small and designed to be chewed for quick cleaning.
• Best for: Travelers or in situations where traditional brushing isn’t possible.

g. Finger Toothbrush

• Use: Brushing for babies or people with sensitive teeth.
• Features: A silicone or soft brush that fits over the finger.
• Best for: Infants and toddlers, or adults with sensitive gums or teeth.

h. Bamboo Toothbrush

• Use: Eco-friendly alternative to plastic manual toothbrushes.
• Features: Biodegradable bamboo handle with nylon or natural bristles.
• Best for: Environmentally conscious individuals.

i. Two-Headed Toothbrush

• Use: Dual-action brushing for more surface coverage.
• Features: Has two brush heads at different angles.
• Best for: People who want to clean more tooth surface area simultaneously.

Each toothbrush type serves a specific purpose depending on individual oral health needs, dental conditions, or personal preferences.

#2 | Toothpastes

With the selection of so many toothpastes, one might be confused as to which one to purchase.  The same rule applies no matter which toothpaste you select; use only a pea-sized amount of toothpaste.  Not all toothpastes are equal.  If you’re not sure which toothpaste would benefit you, it would be best to speak with your dental professional because there are various uses for the different toothpastes available so it is important that you know your oral condition to ensure you use one that will benefit you.  Here is a list of some of that various toothpastes available in the market:

a. Fluoride Toothpaste

• Use: Protects against cavities and strengthens tooth enamel.
• Key Ingredient: Fluoride.
• Best for: Everyone, especially those prone to cavities or with early signs of tooth decay. It’s the most commonly recommended toothpaste by dentists.

b. Whitening Toothpaste

• Use: Removes surface stains to enhance tooth whiteness.
• Key Ingredients: Abrasives like silica, or whitening agents such as hydrogen peroxide.
• Best for: People looking to brighten their smile or reduce stains caused by coffee, tea, tobacco, and food. However, these toothpastes may not whiten teeth beyond their natural shade and may cause sensitivity with overuse.

c. Sensitive Toothpaste

• Use: Reduces tooth sensitivity by soothing nerve endings.
• Key Ingredients: Potassium nitrate or strontium chloride.
• Best for: Individuals with sensitive teeth or those experiencing discomfort from hot, cold, or sweet foods. It helps block pain signals from reaching the nerves inside the teeth.

d. Tartar Control Toothpaste

• Use: Prevents the buildup of tartar (hardened plaque) on teeth.
• Key Ingredients: Pyrophosphates or zinc citrate.
• Best for: People prone to tartar buildup or those with a history of plaque-related issues. However, it does not remove existing tartar and requires professional cleaning for that.

e. Herbal or Natural Toothpaste

• Use: Provides a natural alternative to conventional toothpaste without synthetic chemicals or artificial ingredients.
• Key Ingredients: Plant extracts (like tea tree oil, aloe vera, or neem), essential oils, or baking soda.
• Best for: Those seeking chemical-free or eco-friendly oral care options. It is typically free from fluoride, artificial preservatives, and artificial colors.

f. Charcoal Toothpaste

• Use: Promotes whitening and deep cleaning through activated charcoal.
• Key Ingredients: Activated charcoal.
• Best for: People looking for a natural whitening solution, although long-term use may cause enamel erosion if the paste is too abrasive. It’s a popular trend but should be used cautiously.

g. Antibacterial or Antiseptic Toothpaste

• Use: Reduces bacteria in the mouth and helps combat gum disease.
• Key Ingredients: Triclosan or chlorhexidine.
• Best for: People with gingivitis, bad breath, or gum disease, as it helps reduce harmful bacteria that contribute to these conditions.

h. Desensitizing Toothpaste

• Use: Targets dental pain and discomfort caused by sensitivity or tooth erosion.
• Key Ingredients: Novamin, arginine, calcium phosphosilicate, and potassium nitrate
• Best for: People with exposed tooth roots or worn enamel. It forms a protective layer over sensitive areas of the teeth.

i. Enamel Repair or Strengthening Toothpaste

• Use: Rebuilds and remineralizes tooth enamel to prevent decay.
• Key Ingredients: Calcium, phosphate, or hydroxyapatite.
• Best for: Individuals with early signs of enamel erosion or those wanting to strengthen weakened teeth.

j. Children’s Toothpaste

• Use: Provides gentle cleaning with reduced fluoride content for children.
• Key Ingredients: Typically contains less fluoride and pleasant flavors to encourage brushing.
• Best for: Children under 6 years old, with a focus on preventing cavities while being safe if swallowed.

k. Smoker’s Toothpaste

• Use: Targets stains and bad breath caused by smoking.
• Key Ingredients: Abrasive agents to remove nicotine and tar stains.
• Best for: Smokers or tobacco users seeking to reduce discoloration and freshen breath.

l. Plaque Control Toothpaste

• Use: Prevents and helps break down plaque on teeth.
• Key Ingredients: Enzymes, zinc citrate, or triclosan.
• Best for: People with plaque buildup issues, preventing it from hardening into tartar.

m. Breath-Freshening Toothpaste

• Use: Focuses on eliminating bad breath and promoting a fresh taste.
• Key Ingredients: Baking soda, essential oils (like mint or eucalyptus), and antibacterial agents.
• Best for: Individuals looking for long-lasting fresh breath, often combined with other toothpaste functions (e.g., whitening or sensitivity relief).

Each type of toothpaste is designed to address specific dental needs. It’s best to choose a toothpaste based on your oral health condition, preferences, and, if needed, on your dentist’s recommendation.

#3 | Interdental Cleaners

Toothbrushes and toothpaste unfortunately cannot clean all of your tooth surfaces so interdental cleaners are needed.  Most people only know about floss but there are plenty of interdental cleaners available but using the correct one is important.

Choosing the Right Interdental Cleaner:

• Tight Spaces: Dental floss, floss threaders, or tape are ideal.
• Wide Gaps or Orthodontic Appliances: Interdental brushes or water flossers are more effective.
• Sensitive Gums: Soft picks or water flossers offer gentle cleaning.
• On the Go: Floss picks, pre-threaded flossers, or wooden sticks are convenient and portable options.

Your dental professional may have suggested a specific one for you.  Here are the various types of interdental cleaners available:

a. Dental Floss

• Use: Removes plaque and debris from between teeth and under the gumline.
• Types:
  • Waxed Floss: Coated with a thin layer of wax for easier sliding between teeth.
  • Unwaxed Floss: Thinner, providing a tighter fit between teeth but can fray.
  • Teflon (PTFE) Floss: More resistant to shredding, easily glides between tight spaces.
  • Flavored Floss: Infused with mint or other flavors for a fresher mouthfeel.
• Best for: People with regular tooth spacing and no major dental appliances. It’s the most common interdental cleaner and suitable for daily use.

b. Floss Picks/Floss Holders

• Use: Convenient alternative to traditional floss, combining a small piece of floss attached to a plastic handle for easier use.
• Features: A floss thread at one end and a toothpick or soft tip at the other.
• Best for: People who find traditional floss difficult to use or who need a portable, easy option. Ideal for people on the go or those with limited dexterity.

c. Interdental Brushes

• Use: Clean between teeth, around braces, bridges, or dental implants.
• Features: Small, cone-shaped or cylindrical brushes that fit between teeth. They come in various sizes to accommodate different gap widths.
• Best for: People with wider gaps between teeth, braces, or dental appliances. They’re also recommended for those with gum disease for thorough cleaning between teeth.

d. Wooden Interdental Cleaners (Woodsticks)

• Use: Removes food particles and plaque between teeth.
• Features: Small, disposable wooden sticks that are tapered to fit between teeth.
• Best for: People who want a simple, biodegradable tool for cleaning between teeth. They are generally effective but not as thorough as floss or brushes.

e. Soft Picks

• Use: Gentle cleaning between teeth and around dental work.
• Features: Small, flexible, rubber-like tips that massage gums while removing plaque.
• Best for: People with sensitive gums or tight spaces between teeth. They are a softer alternative to wooden sticks or interdental brushes and are also good for those with braces or bridges.

f. Water Flossers (Oral Irrigators)

• Use: Uses a stream of pulsating water to clean between teeth and along the gumline.
• Features: Devices with adjustable pressure settings, delivering water in bursts to flush out food debris and plaque.
• Best for: People with braces, bridges, implants, or sensitive gums. Water flossers are also effective for those who find traditional flossing difficult or uncomfortable. They are gentle and provide a deep clean.

g. Air Flossers

• Use: Removes plaque and food particles using bursts of air and microdroplets of water.
• Features: Similar to water flossers but use pressurized air instead of a continuous stream of water.
• Best for: People who prefer a quicker cleaning process and want an alternative to traditional flossing. It’s suitable for those with braces or dental work, though less common than water flossers.

h. Interdental Sticks

• Use: Manually clean the spaces between teeth.
• Features: Thin, flexible sticks made of plastic or rubber, designed to be inserted between teeth.
• Best for: People looking for an easy-to-use, disposable option that’s gentle on the gums. They can be an alternative to floss for quick cleaning.

i. Electric Interdental Cleaners

• Use: Battery-operated devices that use rotating or vibrating motions to clean between teeth.
• Features: Have small attachments like interdental brushes or tips for deep cleaning between teeth.
• Best for: Individuals who want an automated interdental cleaning tool for more efficient and thorough plaque removal.

j. Floss Threaders

• Use: Helps guide dental floss between teeth, especially around braces, bridges, or dental implants.
• Features: A looped, flexible plastic tool that allows floss to be threaded between tight spaces.
• Best for: People with braces, bridges, or fixed dental appliances. It makes traditional flossing more accessible in hard-to-reach areas.

k. Dental Tape

• Use: Removes plaque and food debris between teeth.
• Features: Thicker and flatter than traditional floss, making it easier to cover more surface area.
• Best for: People with wider spaces between their teeth or who prefer a broader flossing surface.

l. Pre-Threaded Flossers

• Use: Similar to traditional floss but pre-threaded to simplify the process of flossing.
• Features: Pre-threaded, single-use floss on a handle, making it easier for those with limited dexterity.
• Best for: People with difficulty handling regular floss or needing a quick, portable solution for flossing.

Regular use of interdental cleaners is key to maintaining healthy gums and preventing cavities between teeth.

#4 | Mouthrinses

Mouthrinses or mouthwash can be a lot of benefit to you based on your oral condition.  To learn more about mouthrinses, please visit

#5 | Chewing Gum

Chewing gum does have it benefits and can be useful.  To learn more about chewing gum and its benefits, please visit

#6 | Salivary Enhancement

Dry mouth or xerostomia is a condition that can result from medication, not enough hydration or a pre-existing medical condition.  Sometimes salivary enhancement is needed.  It is important to determine the cause to reason why the dry mouth is present.

Salivary enhancement products and treatments are designed to increase saliva production or manage dry mouth (xerostomia), a condition where the mouth produces insufficient saliva. Here are some common methods and products used for enhancing salivary flow:

Choosing the Right Salivary Enhancement Solution:

• Temporary Dry Mouth: Sugar-free lozenges, gum, or increasing water intake are simple, effective solutions.
• Chronic Dry Mouth: Prescription medications (like pilocarpine), saliva substitutes, or oral gels can offer more sustained relief.
• Medical Conditions: For people undergoing radiation therapy or with autoimmune conditions, treatments like sialogogues or water flossers may be recommended.

a. Saliva Substitutes (Artificial Saliva)

• Use: Provides temporary relief from dry mouth by mimicking natural saliva.
• Features: Typically available as sprays, gels, or rinses. Contains water, electrolytes (like calcium and phosphate), and sometimes enzymes.
• Best for: People with chronic dry mouth due to medical conditions (e.g., Sjögren’s syndrome), medication side effects, or radiation therapy.
• Examples: Biotène Oralbalance Gel, Oasis Moisturizing Mouth Spray.

b. Salivary Stimulants (Sialogogues)

• Use: Stimulates the salivary glands to produce more saliva.
• Types:
  • Medications: Prescription drugs like Pilocarpine (Salagen) or Cevimeline (Evoxac) that increase saliva production by stimulating parasympathetic nerves.
  • Lozenges and Chewing Gums: Products like Xylimelts or ACT Dry Mouth Lozenges contain xylitol or other ingredients that promote saliva production.
• Best for: Individuals with partially functioning salivary glands or those who experience dry mouth due to medication or mild conditions.

c. Xylitol-Containing Products

• Use: Increases saliva flow while helping to prevent cavities.
• Features: Found in sugar-free gum, lozenges, and mints. Xylitol helps stimulate saliva production and has antibacterial properties that reduce the risk of tooth decay.
• Best for: People with mild dry mouth who want a simple, everyday product that also promotes oral health.
• Examples: Orbit Sugar-Free Gum, Spry Xylitol Gum.

d. Moisturizing Mouthwashes

• Use: Hydrates the mouth and alleviates dry mouth symptoms.
• Features: Alcohol-free mouth rinses with added moisturizing agents such as glycerin and aloe vera to help retain moisture.
• Best for: Individuals with dry mouth caused by dehydration, medication, or mild oral conditions. These rinses are soothing and can provide temporary relief.
• Examples: Biotène Dry Mouth Oral Rinse, ACT Total Care Dry Mouth Mouthwash.

e. Hydrating Oral Gels

• Use: Provides long-lasting moisture in the mouth.
• Features: Thick gels applied directly to the gums, tongue, or cheeks, offering more prolonged relief than sprays or rinses.
• Best for: People with moderate to severe dry mouth, especially at night when salivary flow naturally decreases.
• Examples: OraCoat XyliGel, GC Dry Mouth Gel.

f. Humidifiers

• Use: Adds moisture to the air to help prevent dry mouth, especially during sleep.
• Features: A room humidifier increases humidity levels, which can help people with dry mouth maintain oral moisture, especially in dry environments.
• Best for: People experiencing dry mouth due to dry climates or nighttime mouth breathing.

g. Water Intake

• Use: Staying hydrated by drinking plenty of water can naturally boost saliva production.
• Features: Regular sips of water throughout the day help to keep the mouth moist and prevent dehydration.
• Best for: Individuals experiencing mild dry mouth due to dehydration or temporary factors like exercise or heat.

h. Sugar-Free Hard Candies or Lozenges

• Use: Encourages saliva production by stimulating taste receptors.
• Features: Hard candies, especially those containing citric acid or xylitol, can trigger the salivary glands to produce more saliva.
• Best for: People with occasional dry mouth who want a quick and convenient solution.
• Examples: Ricola Sugar-Free Drops, TheraBreath Dry Mouth Lozenges.

i. Oral Moisturizing Sprays

• Use: Provides quick hydration to the mouth by spraying directly onto the oral tissues.
• Features: These sprays often contain lubricating ingredients like glycerin to keep the mouth moist.
• Best for: Individuals with mild to moderate dry mouth looking for easy, on-the-go moisture relief.
• Examples: Xerostom Mouth Spray, Mouth Kote Dry Mouth Spray.

j. Sialometry (Diagnostic Testing)

• Use: Measures the rate of saliva flow to diagnose dry mouth severity.
• Procedure: Conducted in a clinical setting where a doctor measures the amount of saliva produced, often before recommending enhancement treatments.
• Best for: Individuals with chronic or severe dry mouth, typically caused by underlying medical conditions.

k. Acupuncture

• Use: An alternative treatment believed to stimulate salivary gland function through the activation of specific pressure points.
• Features: Acupuncture sessions can enhance natural salivary flow, particularly in cases of radiation-induced xerostomia.
• Best for: People seeking non-pharmacological approaches to increase saliva production.

l. Diet and Lifestyle Modifications

• Use: Adopting habits that promote natural saliva production and avoiding substances that can worsen dry mouth.
• Recommendations:
  • Chewing fibrous foods like vegetables and fruits.
  • Avoiding alcohol, caffeine, and tobacco, which can worsen dry mouth.
  • Consuming spicy or acidic foods that stimulate the taste buds and salivary glands.
• Best for: People with mild or occasional dry mouth who prefer to manage symptoms through diet and lifestyle changes.

m. Cholinergic Agonists

• Use: Prescription medications that stimulate saliva production by activating parasympathetic nervous system receptors.
• Examples: Pilocarpineand Cevimeline, which are typically prescribed for people with conditions like Sjögren’s syndrome.
• Best for: Individuals with more severe or chronic dry mouth, particularly those whose salivary glands still have some residual function.

n. Hydrating Oral Care Products

• Use: Toothpastes, mouthwashes, and other oral care products specifically designed to hydrate the mouth and prevent dry mouth symptoms.
• Features: Moisturizing ingredients, no alcohol (which can dry the mouth), and often contain fluoride to protect against decay.
• Best for: People with chronic dry mouth who want a complete oral hygiene routine tailored to their condition.
• Examples: Biotène Dry Mouth Toothpaste, Colgate Hydris Dry Mouth Toothpaste.

Consulting a dentist or healthcare provider is advised for chronic dry mouth, as it can lead to more serious dental issues like tooth decay or gum disease if left untreated.

#7 | Tongue Cleaning or Scraping

The tongue harbours bacteria and sometimes can be the cause of malodour.  It’s important to make tongue cleaning part of your regular oral hygiene routine.  There are many ways to keep your tongue clean.  The following offer you suggestions on what you can use:
a. Tongue Scrapers

• Use: A tongue scraper is a specialized tool designed to clean the surface of the tongue by gently scraping away bacteria, food particles, and debris.
• Types:
  • Metal Tongue Scrapers: Usually made of stainless steel or copper, these are durable and easy to clean.
  • Plastic Tongue Scrapers: Lightweight and disposable, but less durable.
• How to Use:
  • Extend your tongue and place the scraper at the back of the tongue.
  • Gently pull the scraper forward, removing the buildup.
  • Rinse the scraper after each pass and repeat a few times.
• Best for: People looking for a thorough, deep clean of the tongue. Scrapers are highly effective at removing debris and bacteria.

b. Toothbrush with Tongue Cleaner

• Use: Many toothbrushes come with a built-in tongue cleaner on the back of the head. These are designed for dual-purpose cleaning (teeth and tongue).
• Features: Typically has ridges or bumps on the back side to help scrape the tongue.
• How to Use:
  • After brushing your teeth, use the textured side of the toothbrush to gently scrape your tongue.
  • Brush in a circular motion or move from back to front.
• Best for: People who want a simple, multi-purpose tool for both brushing teeth and cleaning the tongue.

c. Tongue Brushes

• Use: A tongue brush has soft bristles specifically designed to clean the tongue’s surface.
• Features: Short, dense bristles that can remove debris from the tiny crevices on the tongue.
• How to Use:
  • Apply a small amount of toothpaste or use the brush directly on the tongue.
  • Gently scrub the surface from back to front.
  • Rinse the brush after each pass.
• Best for: People with sensitive tongues who prefer a gentler cleaning method than scraping.

d. Electric Tongue Cleaners

• Use: Electric tongue cleaners use vibrations or oscillations to help dislodge bacteria and debris from the tongue.
• Features: These devices come with either vibrating heads or rotating brushes for enhanced cleaning.
• How to Use:
  • Turn on the device and place it at the back of your tongue.
  • Slowly move it forward, allowing the device to do the cleaning.
  • Rinse your mouth after use.
• Best for: Individuals looking for an advanced, effective tool that makes tongue cleaning easier and more efficient.

e. Manual Toothbrushes

• Use: You can clean your tongue using your regular toothbrush, though it may not be as effective as a specialized tool.
• How to Use:
  • After brushing your teeth, use the toothbrush to gently brush your tongue.
  • Move the brush from back to front in gentle strokes.
  • Rinse your mouth and toothbrush afterward.
• Best for: People who don’t have specialized tools but want to clean their tongue with a standard toothbrush.

How to Clean Your Tongue: Step-by-Step Guide

1. Start at the Back: Begin cleaning at the back of your tongue, as this is where most bacteria accumulate.
2. Gently Scrape or Brush: Use a tongue scraper, brush, or toothbrush to gently scrape or brush forward towards the tip of your tongue.
3. Rinse Between Passes: Rinse your tongue cleaner (or toothbrush) after each pass to avoid reintroducing the removed debris.
4. Repeat: Repeat the process 2-3 times, making sure to cover the entire surface of the tongue.
5. Rinse Your Mouth: After cleaning, rinse your mouth thoroughly with water or mouthwash to remove any dislodged bacteria or debris.
6. Clean Your Tongue Cleaner: Wash your tongue scraper or brush after use to ensure it’s hygienic for the next use.

Tips for Effective Tongue Cleaning

• Be Gentle: The surface of your tongue is sensitive. Apply only light pressure to avoid irritation.
• Clean Regularly: Tongue cleaning should be part of your daily oral care routine. Ideally, do it every time you brush your teeth.
• Rinse with Mouthwash: Using an alcohol-free antibacterial mouthwash after tongue cleaning can help further reduce bacteria.
• Hydrate: Staying hydrated helps keep your tongue and mouth moist, preventing bad breath and bacterial buildup.

Benefits of Regular Tongue Cleaning

1. Fresher Breath: Eliminating bacteria from the tongue reduces bad breath.
2. Better Oral Hygiene: Less bacteria means a lower risk of tooth decay, gum disease, and other oral health issues.
3. Improved Taste: Removing debris allows your taste buds to function better.
4. Overall Health Improvement: Tongue cleaning may also reduce the risk of systemic health issues linked to oral bacteria, such as heart disease and diabetes.

Choosing the Right Tongue Cleaning Tool

• Sensitive Tongue: Use a soft-bristled tongue brush or a toothbrush.
• Thorough Cleaning: Opt for a tongue scraper, which can remove more bacteria and debris.
• Convenience: If you want an all-in-one tool, choose a toothbrush with a built-in tongue cleaner.
• Electric Options: For maximum efficiency, consider electric tongue cleaners, especially if you have trouble with manual cleaning.

By incorporating regular tongue cleaning into your oral hygiene routine, you can significantly improve your breath, oral health, and overall well-being.

As your Scaborough family dentist, we hope we have provided you with some important information that will help you make positive changes to your oral home care routine.  If for any reason you are uncertain about what adjuncts or choices to make, please consult with us so we can help you make the right decision.  If you need to contact us, please don’t hesitate.  You can reach us at (416) 291-3117!  Let’s us help you not only reach optimal oral health, but maintain it as well.