Dental Care and Oral Hygiene

What the handle and heads of an electric brush imply

Power type is the first split: manual brushes, battery models, corded units and rechargeable handles are all listed. Rechargeable handles use a base or cable. Battery models need fresh cells but no charger. With an electric brush, the heads are the recurring item, and heads are built for one handle family, so match the series or model code printed on your handle. Packs of replacement heads are listed separately from complete brushes, so check you are not selecting only heads.

Fluoride, age and flavor in pastes, rinses and floss

Toothpaste listings state whether they contain fluoride, and the age on the pack matters. Dentists generally advise a small smear of fluoride paste from the first tooth, and fluoride-free baby pastes exist for children who swallow it. Mouthwash comes in large bottles with different flavors; check whether it is alcohol-free and suitable for children. Floss and picks reach between teeth that bristles miss, and bristle firmness is listed as soft, medium or firm.

Questions about Dental Care and Oral Hygiene

Should children use fluoride toothpaste?

Dental guidance generally recommends a small smear of fluoride toothpaste from the first tooth, with the amount and strength rising with age. Fluoride-free pastes exist for babies who swallow it, so check the age on the pack or ask a dentist.

How often should I replace a brush head?

A common recommendation is about every three months, or sooner when the bristles splay or the indicator bristles fade. Heads must match the handle series, so check the model code on your handle.

Rechargeable or battery-powered electric brush?

Rechargeable handles use a base or cable and run for days between charges. Battery models need fresh cells but no charger. Check the run time per charge or per set of batteries and whether the charger is included.