Costco Connection - July 2009

^inscⁱo^ds^etco Brush Up at Costco

The value

and selection will make

you smile

BuyingSmart

Consumer reporter Pat Volchok gives a behind-the-scenes look at Costco products and services. Send your questions to: buyingsmart@ costco.com.

PREVENTION IS THE BES T oral care investment you can make for your teeth, your health and your pocketbook. The American Dental Education Association estimates that every dollar spent on preventative oral health care can save as much as $50 on future emergency and restorative procedures.

Feeling overdue for an oral care product brush-up, I met with Costco buyers Shannon Axthelm, Patti Gowdey, Greg Shavey, Dick Fletcher, Amber Dodge, Andrew Rice and Derek Berndt.

All agree on the basics. Brush your teeth and gums twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and a high-quality toothbrush. Floss at least once a day after brushing. And for those over 12 years of age, rinse twice daily with an anti-gingivitis mouthwash. Maintaining a balanced diet and regular visits to the dentist are also imperative.

Toothbrushes

Shannon notes, “Don’t rush the brush. Daily brushing is essential for removing buildup and bacteria that comes from eating and drinking. Tests show most people spend less than 47 seconds brushing their teeth.”

To hinder the less-effective quick brush, a majority of dentists now recommend using power brushes with built-in two-minute cleaning routines.

Costco carries the leading brands of power toothbrushes: Philips Electronics Sonicare^®and Procter & Gamble Oral-B^®.

Sonicare’s unique high-velocity sweeping motion works gently, stimulating gums while thoroughly cleaning, polishing, and naturally whitening teeth. The company reports that up to 80 percent of coffee, tea and tobacco stains are removed by up to 2. 5 shades in two weeks.