Interdental brushes These little re-usable finger-held brushes are an alternative to dental floss and some people find them easier to use than conventional floss. The brush gets between the teeth and wipes off plaque, which is a build-up of bacteria. Cost £3.25 a pack of 8 TePe brushes. Stockists www.Dentistshop.co.uk, 0800 3287220

Electric brushes A study in 2002, published in the Journal of Clinical Periodontology, found that, if used properly, electric brushes are marginally more effective at cleaning teeth than manual ones. You just need to guide the brush around the teeth, trying to avoid using too much pressure so that it can be gentle on the gums. I use a sonic toothbrush (pictured right) as I find it comfortable, but I believe that all electric toothbrushes are as good as one another. Cost Sonicare Elite, by Phillips, £99.99. Stockists 0845 6010354

Chewing gum with Xylitol Chewing gums with Xylitol, a sugar substitute, soon after eating may reduce the acid made by bacteria which can cause tooth decay. Chewing increases the amount of saliva in the mouth, diluting and neutralising the acid. It is thought that Xylitol may prevent bacteria from producing acid. Cost Orbit chewing gum with Xylitol, 37p. Stockists Available from shops nationwide

Teeth cleaning wipes These are good in an emergency, but are no substitute for a toothbrush. They may remove some plaque and will freshen your breath, so if you find yourself stuck without a brush, they could be a good bet. Cost Oral-B Brush Aways £0.99 (for a packet of three). Stockists Boots 0845 0708090

Tongue scraper The bacteria that cause bad breath reside on the tongue and don’t like exposure to oxygen. By scraping the tongue you not only scoop them up, but also expose them to oxygen, which may help to prevent bad breath. The worth of tongue brushes has yet to be proven. Cost £1.99 Stockists Boots, 0845 0708090

Mouthwash Mouthwashes that contain chlorhexidine have been proven to have some anti-plaque and anti-bacterial effect on your teeth. But they may also stain your teeth, so it might be better just to use them for a limited time only. Cost Corsodyl mouthwash, £4.15 for 30ml. Stockists 020-8047 2500