11 editor-favorite dental products that make our teeth-cleaning routines easier
However, I've discovered some new wellness innovations over the years that make my teeth-cleaning routine even easier — and my dentist happy. This has left me wondering what other helpful dental products are out there. So, naturally, I tapped CNN Underscored editors to see what they use to keep their teeth sparkling clean.
From an electric flosser and other alternatives to flossing to electric toothbrushes, here are our editors' favorite dental products we swear by for a brighter, dentist-approved smile.
Cocofloss Woven Dental Floss
I didn't like flossing until I tried Cocofloss a few years ago. This woven floss is infused with coconut oil, vegan, BPA-free and, most importantly, comes in a bunch of flavors that make the daily chore fun. While you can get classic mint, the brand also offers some unique flavors like Confetti Cake, Summer Watermelon and Passion Fruit. I always make sure to carry one of these in my purse for emergencies. — Tamara Kraus, senior lifestyle editor
Boka Refresh Mint Whitening n-Ha Toothpaste
I learned about hydroxyapatite toothpaste a few years ago and have tried a few different types along the way. Boka has always remained a favorite — and it's a super-popular choice since its most popular flavors tend to sell out. I especially like its whitening toothpaste since I need help in that department. It's just as minty, fresh and beneficial to my enamel, with natural ingredients like baking soda and coconut oil. — Sophie Shaw, beauty and fashion editor
Grin Softstx Dental Picks
I'm a stickler for flossing my teeth, even on the go. I love that these soft dental picks come with a carrying case and have two ends with bristles and a firm toothpick. — Lindsey Smith, newsletter editor
DenTek Orabrush Tongue Cleaner, 2-Pack
When I found out the surface of the tongue can be a major culprit for bad breath, I jumped on the tongue scraper train. I've been using one of these Orabrush cleaners for almost a decade. The long handle is comfortable to hold and makes it easy to reach all the way to the back of the tongue, while the large soft-bristled head can grab all the gunk from my tongue in just a few swipes. It's a step in my oral hygiene routine that I find equal parts disgusting and satisfying. — Jillian Tracy, associate editor
Flaus Electric Flosser Starter Kit
While I rely on Cocofloss mostly for on-the-go flossing emergencies, Flaus is my dental BFF for at-home flossing. This easy-to-use electric flosser is beloved by multiple CNN Underscored editors because it takes the hassle out of reaching your back molars, and it's easy to do even when I'm exhausted at the end of the day. — Tamara Kraus, senior lifestyle editorRead our review
DrTung's Smart Floss
I had to get a deep clean a few years ago, and ever since that, I've been flossing much more routinely. My dentist recommended checking out this brand of floss, and I've loved it. It has more give than traditional floss, so it doesn't feel as sharp on your gums. Plus, it has a pleasant cardamom flavor as a nice bonus. — Kai Burkhardt, outdoors, sustainable living and pets editor
Zima Dental Pod
This ultrasonic cleaner is a must for anyone who uses a retainer, night guard or similar accessory. The pod uses high-frequency ultrasonic waves to gently remove stains and buildup from dental appliances, leaving them clean and sanitized. I like to couple it with Retainer Brite tablets for the most thorough cleansing. Before I got this device, I had a cheaper alternative, but it was twice as loud and not as nice looking, so I didn't like keeping it on my counter. With Zima's inconspicuous design, it's always out and ready to cleanse my night guard. — Sophie Shaw, beauty and fashion editor
Moon Oral Beauty Water Flosser
I'm working on our best water flossers guide and currently testing this new release from Moon Oral Beauty. I don't know yet if it is the best water flosser on the market, but it certainly helped improve (not to mention, streamline) my oral hygiene routine. It even has an eight-week battery life, which is nice. I haven't recharged it since I started using it. — Michelle Rae Uy, testing and updates writer
Quip Ultra Next Generation Smart Sonic Toothbrush
This smart toothbrush has actually helped me build better brushing habits over the past few months, and I love that it works with or without connecting to an app. The one feature I didn't even know I needed is the pressure sensor, which tells me when I'm brushing too hard. It also has a sleek, seamless design and a replaceable brush head that's specially designed to minimize waste, making it an all-around attractive toothbrush. — Sophie Shaw, beauty and fashion editor
Gum Professional Clean Floss Picks
My dad has been using these floss picks for years, and it turns out, he's been onto something. I tend to get food stuck in between a few rogue teeth after meals, so these are a perfect supplement to my nightly floss routine. I now rely so heavily on them I feel a sense of anxiety whenever I'm without one. Ergonomically designed, they're also perfect for the person who feels physically uncomfortable tightly wrapping strands of floss around their fingers or who experience related mobility issues. — Marissa Miller, contributing editor
Smart Life Dual Tongue Scraper
Oral care doesn't stop at your teeth. Cleaning your tongue and cheeks can have an impact on your breath, and a tongue scraper makes a huge difference. This one is made from medical-grade stainless steel and is easy to use and clean. — Lindsey Smith, newsletter editor CNN Underscored has a team of writers and editors who have many years of experience testing, researching and recommending products, and they ensure each article is carefully edited and products are properly vetted. We talk to top experts when relevant to make certain we are testing each product accurately, recommending only the best products and considering the pros and cons of each item. For this article, senior lifestyle editor Tamara Kraus compiled our editors' favorite dental products.
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Yahoo
18 minutes ago
- Yahoo
Can peptides really help erase wrinkles? Dermatologists weigh in
In you've shopped for any kind of skin care products over the past year, you've probably noticed peptides popping up everywhere. As the beauty world's trendiest, anti-aging ingredient du jour, these small chains of amino acids (which are the building blocks of proteins) are now present in everything from lip plumpers to hair-growth tonics. But experts say their most promising use is as part of an effective daily skin care routine, where research suggests they may in fact have a Botox-like effect on wrinkles by softening fine lines, building collagen and brightening and plumping wizened skin as they go. How do peptides work? "In skin care, peptides are used to mimic natural processes in the skin and encourage anti-aging effects like collagen production, skin repair and improv[ed] elasticity," says board-certified dermatologist and facial plastic surgeon Dr. Akshay Sanan. "As we age, collagen production declines, leading to wrinkles, sagging, and thinner skin. Signal peptides, like Matrixyl and copper peptides send messages to skin cells, essentially 'telling' them to produce more collagen, elastin and other structural proteins to keep the skin firm and plump." Sanan says peptides also strengthen the skin barrier, protecting against moisture loss and environmental damage. And, yes, "some peptides even have a 'Botox-like' effect by relaxing facial muscles and reducing the depth of wrinkles caused by repetitive movements," Sanan explains. Should you try peptides? Dermatologists I spoke with agreed that if you've reached an age when you're starting to spot wrinkles and collagen loss, it's worth adding peptides to your skin care regimen, if only for their plumping, moisturizing effects. In term of acting as a Botox-y wrinkle eraser, research suggests a quality peptide product will soften lines, though the result will be more subtle and less dramatic than that of a neurotoxin. "Collagen peptides do work to boost collagen production in the skin which may, over time, reduce the appearance of wrinkles," says Houston cosmetic surgeon Dr. Rukmini Rednam. What should I look for in a peptide serum? There are loads of types of peptides, but for the most bang for your skin care buck, experts recommend seeking out complexes with the most clinical data behind them, which essentially narrows things down to the Matrixyl 3000 blend and copper peptides. Both of which have some research to back up their claims, with benefits that include skin barrier support, wrinkle softening and complexion brightening. How should I use a peptide serum? Peptides are one of those skin care ingredients you can add to your routine both in the morning and at night. And, as is the case with any lighter-weight serum, for best absorption, these products should be applied after cleansing your face but before you slather on heavier creams like moisturizers and sunscreens. In terms of more detailed order of operations, you can combine peptides with vitamin C and layer them with retinoids, but most skin care experts say you shouldn't mix them with an exfoliating products. Our top 5 favorite peptide serums If you have Amazon Prime, you'll get free shipping, of course. Not yet a member? No problem. You can sign up for your free 30-day trial here. (And by the way, those without Prime still get free shipping on orders of $35 or more.) The reviews quoted above reflect the most recent versions at the time of publication.
Yahoo
33 minutes ago
- Yahoo
Warren Buffett's Next Big Buy? Why This Beaten-Down Blue Chip Stock Fits His Playbook Perfectly.
Key Points Buffett understands the business of this beleaguered insurer. He would likely find its financials appealing. Buffett would almost certainly like the stock's valuation. 10 stocks we like better than UnitedHealth Group › Warren Buffett has a lot of money burning a hole in his pocket. Technically, it's Berkshire Hathaway's (NYSE: BRK.A) (NYSE: BRK.B) pocket, but Buffett gets to decide how to use the cash. And when I say a lot of money, I mean a lot of money: Berkshire's cash position totaled nearly $348 billion at the end of the first quarter. The problem is that Buffett can't find many stocks to buy that meet his stringent investment criteria. However, I think there's one beaten-down blue chip stock that fits his playbook perfectly. A business Buffett understands Buffett has stated on multiple occasions, in various ways, that he will only invest in a business that he thoroughly understands. In his 1996 letter to Berkshire Hathaway shareholders, he wrote: "You don't have to be an expert on every company, or even many. You only have to be able to evaluate companies within your circle of competence." Probably no business is within Buffett's circle of competence more than insurance. Berkshire generates a significant portion of its revenue from its property and casualty business. But the core principles of running an insurance business are the same regardless of what type of insurance it is. The key to success is to effectively evaluate risk and charge premiums that cover that risk while making a profit. UnitedHealth Group (NYSE: UNH) is the largest health insurer in the United States. I don't doubt that Buffett knows its business quite well. After all, he bought a stake in UnitedHealth for Berkshire's portfolio in 2006 and owned the stock for three years. Financials Buffett would find appealing UnitedHealth Group's share price has plunged more than 50% this year. The company delivered lower-than-expected results in the first quarter. It initially cut full-year guidance and then withdrew the guidance altogether. However, I suspect that Buffett would still find UnitedHealth's financials appealing. Buffett has talked about the importance of return on equity (ROE) in the past. He has hinted that 20% is his preferred ROE threshold. UnitedHealth Group's ROE over the past 12 months was 22.7%. Despite its disappointing Q1 results, UnitedHealth Group's revenue still grew $9.8 billion year over year to $109.6 billion. The company also generated a profit of nearly $6.3 billion. It had nearly $34.3 billion in cash and cash equivalents with a manageable debt load. I think Buffett would focus on UnitedHealth's hard numbers more than he would Wall Street's expectations. A price Buffett almost certainly likes Why hasn't Buffett put more of Berkshire's massive cash stockpile to work? He can't find many stocks with attractive valuations. But UnitedHealth Group has a price Buffett almost certainly likes. The healthcare stock trades at roughly 12 times trailing 12-month earnings. UnitedHealth Group's earnings multiple was significantly higher when Buffett first initiated a position in early 2006. Of course, Buffett focuses on future earnings potential. Could he be worried that UnitedHealth Group's profits will continue to all? I don't think so. The company's primary issue is that costs for some of its Medicare Advantage plans were higher than expected. Buffett knows that insurers can easily address these kinds of problems in the next year by increasing premiums. He would likely believe UnitedHealth Group's prediction that the company will return to growth in 2026. Is Buffett buying UnitedHealth Group stock? I also don't know if Buffett is buying UnitedHealth Group stock. He could be content to sit on Berkshire's cash and leave it to Greg Abel to make any big moves after Buffett steps down as CEO at the beginning of next year. What I do know, though, is that UnitedHealth Group fits Buffett's playbook. And that playbook has been enormously successful through the years. Investors wanting to emulate Buffett might want to consider buying shares of the beaten-down blue chip stock while it's a bargain -- whether or not the "Oracle of Omaha" buys it himself. Should you buy stock in UnitedHealth Group right now? Before you buy stock in UnitedHealth Group, consider this: The Motley Fool Stock Advisor analyst team just identified what they believe are the for investors to buy now… and UnitedHealth Group wasn't one of them. The 10 stocks that made the cut could produce monster returns in the coming years. Consider when Netflix made this list on December 17, 2004... if you invested $1,000 at the time of our recommendation, you'd have $634,627!* Or when Nvidia made this list on April 15, 2005... if you invested $1,000 at the time of our recommendation, you'd have $1,046,799!* Now, it's worth noting Stock Advisor's total average return is 1,037% — a market-crushing outperformance compared to 182% for the S&P 500. Don't miss out on the latest top 10 list, available when you join Stock Advisor. See the 10 stocks » *Stock Advisor returns as of July 21, 2025 Keith Speights has positions in Berkshire Hathaway. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends Berkshire Hathaway. The Motley Fool recommends UnitedHealth Group. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. Warren Buffett's Next Big Buy? Why This Beaten-Down Blue Chip Stock Fits His Playbook Perfectly. was originally published by The Motley Fool
Yahoo
40 minutes ago
- Yahoo
A farewell to Ozzy, Coke's sugar high, another vaccine shake-up: The week in review
RFK shakes up vaccines again Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. took another step toward overhauling the nation's vaccine policy when he approved the removal of thimerosal, a mercury-based preservative, from all flu vaccines despite widespread agreement in the medical community that the preservative is safe. Kennedy signed off on a recommendation from the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices, a panel he replaced with his own appointed members in June, to stop distributing vaccines containing thimerosal, which has long been targeted by anti-vaccine groups. An operatic honor for Melania Republican lawmakers are working on a Kennedy Center production of their own: renaming the center's Opera House to the 'First Lady Melania Trump Opera House.' The House Appropriations Committee, whose spending bill funds the iconic performing arts venue in Washington, voted 33-25 for the change. Lawmakers have already agreed to spend $256.7 million on improvements to the center sought by President Donald Trump, who ousted much of the Kennedy Center's board after he took office and appointed himself chairman. He has criticized some of the center's performances and said in one visit that he 'never liked 'Hamilton' very much.' A sweet twist to the Cola wars Cane sugar: It's the real thing. A Coca-Cola made with cane sugar − not high-fructose corn syrup − is coming to the United States this fall, the company announced, just like the Coke you find overseas, including Mexico. (The long-running debate over which tastes better, U.S. Coke or Mexican Coke, has been a fierce one). The news doesn't come as a compete surprise; President Donald Trump had made a case for cane sugar Coke on social media in mid-July − 'You'll see. It's just better!' Also, not to be outdone, Pepsi announced it is launching Pepsi Prebiotic Cola this fall, in Original Cola and Cherry Vanilla, containing 5 grams of cane sugar and 3 grams of prebiotic fiber. Ozzy Osbourne, the 'Prince of Darkness,' is dead The heavy metal world has lost one of its most beloved characters, Ozzy Osbourne, at age 76, only weeks after reuniting with his original band, Black Sabbath, in England for a farewell show. Osbourne, who was infamous for his hard living (and for biting the head off a bat), exploded into stardom in a solo career and later branched into reality TV with MTV's 'The Osbournes' in the early 2000s. In 2020, he revealed he had Parkinson's disease. In a just-announced new memoir, 'Last Rites,' arriving Oct. 7, Osbourne says: 'Look, if it ends tomorrow, I can't complain. I've been all around the world. … I've done good, and I've done bad. But right now, I'm not ready to go anywhere.' Remembering Ozzy Osbourne: Life on the 'Crazy Train': The metal icon through the years All bets for 2026 are on Scottie Scheffler Scottie Scheffler, fresh off a dominating win at the British Open July 20, is at the top of his game, and you can expect he'll be there for awhile. Scheffler, 29, who also captured the PGA Championship in May and now needs only a U.S. Open victory to enter the elite group of golfers who have won the sport's grand slam of all four major championships, is now the odds-on favorite to win every major in 2026, according to BetMGM. Declared the gaming venture's Matt Wall: 'The comparisons with Tiger Woods certainly don't look out of place right now.' − Compiled by Robert Abitbol This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: A farewell to Ozzy, Coke's sugar high, the flu fight: Week in review
