Dr. James Belcher, December 3, 2025

A toothbrush isn't enough: What piece of the puzzle is missing from your dental care routine?

Brushing your teeth is part of your routine – morning, evening, done. But did you know that your toothbrush doesn't reach all areas and that many problems can still arise in your mouth? Your mouth is a complex ecosystem home to more than 700 types of bacteria. Here you'll learn which missing piece of the puzzle completes your dental care – and how you can protect your gums in the long term.

Zahnbürste reicht nicht: Welches Puzzleteil fehlt in Deiner Zahnpflege?

What is that?

While a toothbrush cleans the tooth surfaces, plaque (biofilm) also accumulates between the teeth and at the gum line. This is precisely where harmful bacteria can thrive, causing inflammation such as gingivitis (gum inflammation) or periodontitis. Therefore, in addition to brushing, you need extra help: interdental brushes, dental floss, and microbiome-friendly oral care products fill these gaps.

Why is it important?

Healthy gums mean more than just a beautiful smile – they protect your entire body. Studies show links between periodontitis and cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and even Alzheimer's. If the biofilm isn't regularly disrupted, harmful bacteria from the mouth can enter the bloodstream. In short: your mouth is a gateway to overall health.

Science explained briefly

Research shows that biofilm – the tough, bacterial layer on teeth and gums – cannot simply be brushed away. Key pathogens such as Porphyromonas gingivalis are particularly problematic. This bacterium can manipulate the immune system, exacerbate inflammation, and disrupt the balance of the oral flora.

The patented PerioTrap® technology specifically blocks the disease-causing mechanisms of such bacteria – without harming the beneficial microorganisms of the microbiome. An innovative, resistance-free approach to protecting your oral health.

What can you do?

  • Clean between your teeth as well. Flossing or using interdental brushes is essential – ideally daily.
  • Use microbiome-friendly products. Conventional, harsh mouthwashes kill all bacteria, including the beneficial ones. Products like PerioTrap Microbiome Toothpaste, on the other hand, support the balance of your oral flora.
  • Brush properly – and don't rinse immediately. If you spit out toothpaste after brushing and don't rinse with water, the active ingredients remain effective for longer.
  • Go for regular professional teeth cleaning (PZR). Afterwards, your dentist can specifically protect your gums with a care gel like PerioTrap Prophylaxis Care Gel.

In summary

  • The toothbrush doesn't reach all areas.
  • A healthy microbiome protects your gums.
  • PerioTrap products promote balance instead of removing all bacteria – including the beneficial ones.

Did you know?

Your mouth harbors more bacteria than there are people on Earth – many of them are true bodyguards for your gums, as long as you don't disturb their balance.

Sources

Studies & Information: Fraunhofer Institute, PerioTrap Pharmaceuticals Research, Journal of Periodontology.

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