Tips to Make the Most of Your Cleanings

Regular cleanings are important, but they work best when paired with a good at-home oral care routine. Here are some tips to keep your teeth healthy between cleanings:

1. Brush Twice a Day (For Two Minutes!)

Use a fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled brush. Brush for two minutes, twice a day—morning and night. Don’t brush too hard (it can damage gums), and make sure to brush all surfaces of your teeth: front, back, and top.

2. Floss Every Day

Floss at least once a day, preferably before bed. Use about 18 inches of floss, wrap it around your fingers, and gently slide it between each tooth. Curve the floss like a “C” against the tooth and gently scrape off plaque. Don’t snap the floss into your gums—it can cause irritation.

3. Use an Antimicrobial Mouthwash

After brushing and flossing, rinse with an antimicrobial mouthwash (like Listerine or Colgate Total). It kills bacteria in your mouth that brushing and flossing might miss. It’s an extra layer of protection.

4. Watch What You Eat and Drink

Limit sugary snacks and drinks. Sugar feeds the bacteria in plaque, which produce acid that wears down enamel. If you do eat something sugary, rinse your mouth with water afterward. Also, limit acidic drinks (soda, juice, coffee) because they can erode enamel.

5. Don’t Smoke or Use Tobacco

Smoking and tobacco use are major risk factors for gum disease and tooth loss. They stain your teeth, reduce blood flow to the gums, and make it harder for your body to fight infection. If you use tobacco, quitting is one of the best things you can do for your dental health.

6. Stay Hydrated

Drink plenty of water. Water helps wash away food particles and bacteria, and it keeps your mouth moist (saliva is your mouth’s natural cleaner).

7. See Your Dentist Regularly (Beyond Cleanings!)

Even if you’re not due for a cleaning, see your dentist at least once a year for an exam. They’ll check for issues that a cleaning might not catch, like cavities between teeth or early signs of gum disease.

Who Can Benefit the Most from Regular Teeth Cleani

Pretty much everyone can benefit from regular cleanings, but some groups get even more out of them. Let’s take a look:

Kids

Kids are especially prone to cavities, especially in their back teeth. Regular cleanings help remove plaque and tartar, and fluoride treatments and sealants can protect their developing teeth. It’s also a good habit to start early—teaches them that dental care is important.

Teens

Teens often have busy lifestyles—sugary snacks, energy drinks, maybe smoking or vaping. Regular cleanings can catch issues early and help them develop good oral care habits that will last into adulthood.

Adults

For most adults, twice-a-year cleanings are essential to maintain gum health and prevent cavities. If you have a busy schedule, it’s even more important to stay on top of cleanings—you might not notice small issues until they’re big.

Seniors

As we age, our gums can recede, and our saliva production decreases (which makes us more prone to cavities and bad breath). Regular cleanings help keep seniors’ mouths healthy and comfortable, which is important for their overall quality of life.

People With Medical Conditions

People with diabetes, heart disease, or immune disorders are at higher risk for gum disease. Regular cleanings are a key part of managing their oral health, which in turn supports their overall health.

People With Dental Appliances

If you have braces, dentures, or other dental appliances, they trap more plaque and food particles. Regular cleanings ensure that the appliances are clean and that your teeth and gums are healthy around them.