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Originally posted by Prefontaine:

quote:

Originally posted by Jim Shugart:
Not to hijack, but what do you think about electric toothbrushes, like Oral-B?

Since switching many years ago I haven't had any cavities and when I go in for my semi-annual 6 month visits they barely have to scrape.

I've used both and recently switched back to an Oral-B from a Sonicare, I prefer the more mechanical Oral-B to the oscillating Sonicare.

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Originally posted by MNSIG:

quote:

Originally posted by ArtieS:
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The effect of topical vs systemic (water system) fluoride are not exactly the same. Topical can help with remineralization of early lesions, where systemic is more important in enamel formation in children. The concentration in municipal water is not high enough to make a difference topically.

Having fluoride in your toothpaste is a good thing, but independent of your water source. Still, a patient doing a fantastic job brushing and flossing is unlikely to be the one who needs the fluoride in the first place. Using fluoride toothpaste also won't do much to help the crappy brusher.

Thanks very much for the additional information.

A

I have naturally gravitated towards toothpaste with baking soda soda just because I like the taste.

To me, the real revolution in dental care was when I got a water pik. It is actually disturbing to see how much crud a water pik will blow out of your teeth even after a "thorough" brushing, flossing, and rinsing. It's like I can't figure out where it is all coming from! It is like your mouth is a clown-car. It must be particles that are stuck just sub-gum-line.

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Originally posted by MNSIG:

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Originally posted by ArtieS:
A downside of this is that you miss out on fluoride in the toothpaste. I live on a well system, so I have no added fluoride, therefore my only sources of this important cavity fighting element is the fluoride in my toothpaste and the semi-annual treatments I get from my dentist at cleaning time.

Something to consider if you don't live on a municipal water system.

The effect of topical vs systemic (water system) fluoride are not exactly the same. Topical can help with remineralization of early lesions, where systemic is more important in enamel formation in children. The concentration in municipal water is not high enough to make a difference topically.

Having fluoride in your toothpaste is a good thing, but independent of your water source. Still, a patient doing a fantastic job brushing and flossing is unlikely to be the one who needs the fluoride in the first place. Using fluoride toothpaste also won't do much to help the crappy brusher.

This. You don't really need toothpaste to clean your teeth effectively, but any mild, non-abrasive variety will work, and baking soda is as good as any. Toothpaste tastes better, and will marginally help in removing stains and reducing sensitivity. You can (sort of) compensate for the lack of topical fluoride by using a fluoride rinse - which you should do anyway. And an automatic - electric - toothbrush will, generally, do a better job than manual brushing, Braun and Philips being the foremost manufacturers, and either product line will do a good job if used properly and often - especially for the disabled and children. Flossing has been controversial of late, but likely is an important adjunct as well (or the less effective various water flossers), although peer-reviewed research is sparse. If you find you are removing chunks of food from between your teeth with floss after brushing, then yes, you need it.