Desensitising tooth-pastes are available for treating sensitive teeth. They contain formalin, formaldehyde or strontium chloride. Mouth Washes Mouth-washes were originally used for bad breath. They contained a deodorant. But now they contain fluorides and anti-plaque agents which combat both cavities and plaque.
Sodium fluoride is an active ingredient in anti-caries mouth washes.
Hydrogen peroxide is used commonly as a mouth-wash for bleeding gums. Ideally mouth-washes should be used in full concentration and should not be diluted. Dental Floss Floss is a thin twine-like cord that is manipulated between the teeth. Again it is designed to clean away the plaque from the gums and between the teeth. It comes in reels or boxes and can be waxed or unwaxed.