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11 editor-favorite dental products that make our teeth-cleaning routines easier

11 editor-favorite dental products that make our teeth-cleaning routines easier

CNN4 hours ago
Going to the dentist is a twice-yearly activity that many people fear, but for some reason, I'm one of the few who actually looks forward to it. Perhaps it's because I have excellent oral hygiene habits (thanks, Mom and Dad), which have mostly followed me into adulthood. I brush twice daily and try to floss every day, though there are occasional times I don't stick to the plan or the recommended order of operations when it comes to my teeth-cleaning routine.
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.
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