What Do You Use? A Dental Hygienist’s Favorite Oral Care Products
As a dental hygienist, I get asked one question more than any other:
“What do you use?”
Not what’s trendy. Not what has the best advertising campaign. People want the real deal—the products that survive my sink test.
So here it is: my personal lineup of favorite dental hygiene products. These are not commandments written in stone, but they are the tools I genuinely love and use every day.
The Best Toothbrush: Electric Is Non-Negotiable
In my world, an electric toothbrush is a must. It’s like upgrading from a broom and dustpan to a Dyson.
I’m loyal to Sonicare and Oral-B. Both do an excellent job. Choose the one that:
- Feels good in your hand
- Doesn’t annoy you at 6 a.m.
The best toothbrush is always the one you’ll actually use.
Hygienist Tip:
Hold your brush at a 45-degree angle toward the gumline and let it glide. Don’t scrub like you’re polishing a silver trophy. Your gums will thank you.
Waterpik: Helpful, But Not a Floss Replacement
I also use a Waterpik—but let me lovingly yell this part:
It does not replace flossing.
Think of it as a bonus round, not the main event. More like a pressure washer for your gums. It gets into all the little nooks and crannies where plaque likes to hide and throw parties.
Hygienist Tip:
I use the cordless Waterpik. Using it in the shower keeps the bathroom (and mirror) much tidier.
Mouthwash: Alcohol-Free Is the Way to Go
Mouthwash is a daily habit I swear by. I prefer alcohol-free and dye-free mouthwash.
Alcohol can leave your mouth feeling like it just walked through a desert, and dye is purely decorative. Your mouthwash doesn’t need to look like a sports drink to work.
Hygienist Tip:
Swish for 30–60 seconds, reaching all the corners. Your cheeks and tongue deserve some attention too.
Toothpaste I Actually Use
For toothpaste, I rotate between Cocolab Shine and B.O.K.A. Both leave my teeth feeling clean without that aggressive, sandblasted sensation some toothpastes have.
Tiny Tip:
Less is more. A pea-sized amount is plenty.
My Favorite Floss (Yes, I Have One)
My go-to floss is Cocolab floss. It’s sturdy, effective, and oddly satisfying. If floss had a personality trait, this one would be overachiever.
Hygienist Tip:
Curve the floss into a gentle “C” shape around each tooth instead of snapping it up and down.
Simple Tools, Consistent Habits, Healthier Gums
These are personal choices, but they’re products I trust enough to use on my own teeth. Oral care doesn’t have to be complicated or fancy.
A solid routine, the right tools, and a few focused minutes a day can save you a lot of time in my chair later.
And I promise—I am rooting for you and your gums.
Bonus Hygienist Secret
Consistency beats intensity.
A quick 2-minute brush twice a day + daily flossing = a winning smile. 🦷✨
Laurie Jokers, RDH
(303)773-8262
www.linkdentalcolorado.com
