Oral care is essential for maintaining good dental health, similar to how cooking meals is unavoidable. While you can sometimes skip making dinner by ordering takeout, neglecting oral hygiene isn’t an option. Using the best oral care products is crucial to avoid cavities, plaque, and bad breath.
“When you’re sleeping, your mouth dries out, and your saliva cannot rinse away food particles left from the day,” explains Dr. Kandis Smith, General Dentist and Owner of SmileVana. “This creates an environment for bacteria to produce acid that can dissolve tooth enamel, leading to cavities.”
NBC Select staff has tested numerous oral care products, some of which have received Wellness Awards. Here’s a look at our top 50 selections, including toothpaste, flossers, and more.
Best Toothpastes
A good toothpaste forms the foundation of your oral care routine. It helps protect against cavities and freshens breath. One recommended choice is fluoride toothpaste for its cavity protection and cleaning power. However, watch out for sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS), which might irritate some users.
Colgate’s Cavity Protection Fluoride Toothpaste creates a foam that helps freshen breath and fight plaque, especially at the gum line. It’s a favorite among NBC Select reviewers for its foamy texture and fresh result.
Best Whitening Toothpastes
Whitening toothpastes are popular for maintaining a bright smile. Colgate’s whitening toothpaste has received Wellness Awards for its effectiveness in removing surface stains, relieving sensitivity, and strengthening enamel.
Staff reviews highlight its long-lasting mint flavor and non-irritating formula. “It leaves teeth feeling clean and has a gentle, effective whitening effect,” says NBC Select senior editor Nikki Brown.
Toothpastes for Sensitive Teeth
If you have sensitive teeth, look for toothpaste with potassium nitrate, an ingredient that helps reduce sensitivity. Sensodyne’s Clinical Repair toothpaste is noted for its gentle whitening without irritation, featuring stannous fluoride for antimicrobial benefits.
Electric Toothbrushes
Electric toothbrushes excel in providing thorough cleaning with ease. Features such as multiple speed settings, timers, and strong battery life make them desirable. NBC Select recommends models with soft bristles to protect gums while offering strong cleaning power.
“Using an electric toothbrush makes brushing more efficient and effective,” reports NBC Select senior editor Shalwah Evans.
Manual Toothbrushes
Sometimes, manual toothbrushes are more convenient, especially for travel. Choose brushes that are easy to grip and that thoroughly clean teeth. Oral-B’s manual toothbrush is noted for its tongue scraper and ability to reach between teeth.
Mouthwashes
Mouthwash is an option in oral care routines to keep breath fresh and bacteria in check. Listerine Clinical Solutions features a non-burning, gentle formula great for sensitive teeth.
Floss
Daily flossing is key to preventing cavities and gum diseases. Products like Brushmo’s floss and Plackers’ mini flossers provide strength and ease of use. They effectively remove debris from tight spaces between teeth.
Water Flossers
Water flossers can replace traditional flossing, especially for those with implants or braces, by using pressure to clear bacteria and debris. Waterpik’s models are favored for their cordless design and strong pressure settings.
Whitening Strips
Professional teeth whitening may provide rapid results, but over-the-counter options like Crest Whitestrips offer effective results as well. They are easy to use and don’t leave a gritty residue.
Oral Care Accessories
Accessories like the Bril toothbrush cleaner add hygiene to oral care routines. It eliminates germs from toothbrushes, providing peace of mind when storing brushes.