Many toothpastes are beneficial; however, it is more important to employ proper brushing technique. Colgate Total toothpaste and Sensodyne toothpaste are recommended.

Colgate Total toothpaste has an an active ingredient called Triclosan. Triclosan is an antibiotic that can attack bacteria involved in tooth decay and gum disease.

Sensodyne toothpaste is recommended for those with sensitive teeth. After using Sensodyne for three months, many patients find reduced sensitivity.

Many patients appreciate the benefits of an electric toothbrushes such as Sonicare or Braun Oral-B. Sonicare regulates the pressure placed on the teeth. If a manual toothbrush is selected, it is recommended that patients select a multi-tufted, soft bristle toothbrush. The toothbrush should be replaced every three months.  

It is equally important for a patient to clean their tongue with a tongue cleaner to remove sulfur containing compounds that are emitted from food particles. These compounds are the primary cause of halitosis (bad breath). 

Flossing should be done after every meal. Flossing is the only method to properly clean between two teeth. Glide Floss and Braun Oral-B Floss provide waxed dental floss in a travel size form for busy people. Flossing should begin once any two teeth have erupted next to one another. It is recommended to floss as early as seven years old. Using your index fingers as a guide, hold the floss tightly against the tooth. Make a "U" shape along the tooth, gently move the tooth up and down to remove plaque. Proceed to pull the floss up over the triangular gum area and make a "U" shape against the adjacent tooth and repeat the motion. Be sure to floss behind the back teeth where there is no adjacent tooth.

Dental floss tape is recommended for patients with gingival recession. The dental tape is used similarly to regular dental floss but provides a greater surface area for interdental cleaning and reduces the chance of floss shredding.

Floss threaders are necessary for oral care maintenance of fixed bridges and braces. The floss threader forms a loop on one end in which a 20" piece of floss is threaded through halfway. The other end of the floss threader is guided underneath the bridge in order to bring the floss through. Some companies manufacture one piece floss threaders which are assembled with both floss and floss threader to provide easy use.

In addition to floss threaders, a professional oral irrigator should be used to cleanse underneath and around bridges. Patient compliance is required to maintain proper oral hygiene.