The importance of dental accessories in your daily oral hygiene routine

The dental accessories are essential for complete oral hygiene: dental floss, interdental brushes, water flossers, and tongue cleaners help prevent cavities, gingivitis, and bad breath. When combined with professional products, such as KIN toothpastes and mouthwashes, along with a consistent and thorough routine, they help prevent plaque buildup and keep your mouth healthier.

Why are dental accessories important for oral hygiene?

Studies have shown that people who do not use dental care products regularly may lose teeth, have greater pocket depth, and exhibit other damage detectable on X-rays. In addition to preventing disease, a comprehensive oral hygiene routine improves the results of any oral treatment. 

1. They clean where the brush can't reach

Dental accessories complement daily brushing—whether manual or electric—by reaching hard-to-reach areas where approximately 42% of dental biofilm and food debris accumulate, such as the spaces between teeth and subgingival areas. 

2. They help prevent systemic diseases

In addition to causing gum and tooth disease, oral bacteria can lead to complications in other organs if they manage to enter the bloodstream. Thus, dental accessories also serve as preventive tools for maintaining overall health.

3. They help reduce bad breath

Bacteria that aren't removed produce compounds that cause persistent bad breath. Accessories such as tongue scrapers or oral irrigators help keep your breath fresh and provide a longer-lasting feeling of cleanliness. 

How can I improve my interdental cleaning?

There are many ways to improve cleaning between your teeth; the key is to choosing the dental tool that is most comfortable and delivers the best results in each case: dental floss, interdental brushes, oral irrigators, and tongue brushing. Remember to disinfect your toothbrush daily to prevent cross-contamination.

1. Dental floss

Dental floss is one of the most commonly used tools for interdental hygiene. It is designed to clean tight spaces that toothbrushes can’t reach. It reduces the risk of gingivitis and tooth decay and contributes to a feeling of thorough cleanliness. 

Ideally, cut a 30- to 45-cm length of floss and slide it in a “C” shape around each tooth, passing it under the gum line. Technique and consistency are key.

2. Interdental brushes

Interdental brushes are small brushes designed to clean the spaces between teeth; they are useful for orthodontic cases or wider spaces. It is very important to choose the right size—not too thick, to avoid causing trauma, nor too thin, so as not to lose effectiveness.

For some patients, it is more comfortable than flossing, and there are even studies suggesting that, in some cases, it can remove up to twice as much biofilm than dental floss.

3. Oral irrigators

These devices use a pulsating water jet to thoroughly clean between teeth and below the gum line. They do not replace dental floss or interdental brushes; rather, they are an additional tool recommended for people with braces or implants. 

4. Tongue brushing

Although it doesn't directly apply to cleaning between your teeth, it's a good idea to clean your tongue daily to reduce bacteria and keep your breath fresh. If you’re unsure, you can ask your dentist for a demonstration on how to do it. 

Which products help prevent cavities and plaque?

Preventing cavities and plaque buildup is only possible by using the correct technique and the appropriate professional products.

1. Toothbrushes

A good toothbrush, such as the KIN toothbrushes, is the foundation of any oral hygiene routine. Both manual and electric toothbrushes can be very effective when used with the proper technique. They help control dental biofilm and, as a result, reduce gum inflammation and bleeding. Some electric toothbrushes include features such as a timer or pressure control, which help improve your oral hygiene routine.

In both cases, the bristles should be soft to conform to the shape of the teeth and gums. You should replace the brush and/or replace the brush heads every 3 months or when the bristles are worn out.

2. fluoride toothpaste

fluoride remineralize tooth enamel, making it more resistant to bacterial acids. It strengthens teeth, protects them from cavities, and slows the progression of early enamel damage, so the tooth surface remains smooth and plaque has a harder time sticking to it.

3. Mouthwashes

fluoride anti-plaque mouthwashes are a good supplement for preventing cavities and the buildup of dental biofilm, especially in people who are prone to developing gum complications. They do not replace brushing or interdental cleaning, but they help keep hard-to-reach areas clean as long as the Indications are followed properly.

What is the best comprehensive oral hygiene routine?

Brushing your teeth ideally after every meal. Consistency is key. That said, it’s very important to go to bed with a clean mouth to prevent plaque buildup overnight.

Toothbrushes should be used at a 45° angle to the gumline and for at least 3 minutes, covering all tooth surfaces with circular motions. It is a good idea to use the same toothbrush (or a tongue scraper) to clean the tongue. Then, use dental floss, interdental brushes, and Mouthwash thoroughly clean the teeth.

Tips for incorporating the routine into your daily life

Linking brushing to a daily routine, such as eating breakfast or taking a shower, helps establish a habit. Also, leaving dental accessories in plain sight as a reminder. Another idea is to set reminders on your phone, leave visible notes in the bathroom, or reward yourself with a small treat after brushing. 

To stay fresh at lunchtime, a good solution is to carry a portable dental kit with a toothbrush, toothpaste, dental floss, and a mini mouthwash. This makes it easier to maintain good oral hygiene after every meal when you’re away from home. If brushing isn’t possible, sugar-free gum can be a temporary solution.