Best Practices to Improve Your Oral Hygiene Routine

7 June
2022
Best Practices to Improve Your Oral Hygiene Routine
Posted in Oral Care Oral Hygiene Tips

A trusted Palm Beach Gardens dentist would tell you that achieving a healthy smile takes a lifetime of care. Even if you have nice teeth, taking the proper steps to care for them can keep your mouth clean and disease free. Establishing and maintaining a good oral hygiene routine helps you stop oral health issues such as cavities, bad breath, gum disease, and tooth loss. 

Additionally, research suggests that oral health is linked to whole body health. Bacteria from an infection in your mouth can enter the bloodstream and reach other areas of your body, resulting in other health issues such as cardiovascular disease and stroke. To help you achieve long-lasting overall health, we’ve compiled these oral hygiene tips to ensure a more thorough clean. 

Palm Beach Gardens dentist scheduled visit marked on a calendar

Oral Hygiene Tips for a More Thorough Clean 

Use a Soft-Bristled Toothbrush 

Dental professionals recommend changing your toothbrush every two to three months or as soon as you notice the bristles are frayed. If you’re using a hard-bristled toothbrush, you’ll want to replace it with soft bristles. Although medium- and hard-bristled toothbrushes may seem effective at cleaning your teeth, they can be abrasive and damaging to your tooth enamel over time.  

Tilt the brush at a 45-degree angle against your gum line and brush in short, circular motions. Since brushing too vigorously can hurt your teeth and gums, it’s best to use a gentle amount of pressure as you clean your teeth. 

Use a Fluoride Toothpaste 

No matter which toothpaste version you choose, use one that contains fluoride. This substance remains a mainstay in oral health because it protects teeth against decay. Besides providing a protective barrier for your teeth, fluoride eliminates germs that lead to decay and cavities. 

Brush Twice a Day 

Since brushing too often can cause damage to your gums and tooth enamel, experts confirm that brushing twice a day is enough. They also recommend rinsing your mouth with plain water after every meal and snack. While at it, be sure to do some vigorous swishing so you can force the liquid between your teeth and dislodge any food debris. 

woman with toothache needs to visit a Palm Beach Gardens dentist

Start Brushing in the Back 

Your molars are more susceptible to gum disease and cavities because of their nooks and crannies. For this reason, you’ll want to give your back teeth the attention they deserve by beginning your brushing routine in the rear. Start brushing the upper side in the back so you won’t miss any spots. 

Floss Once Daily 

Since brushing alone won’t allow you to clean the spaces between your teeth, it’s best to floss once daily. Besides getting little pieces of food off your teeth, flossing reduces plaque, stimulates your gums, and minimizes gum inflammation. If you have dexterity issues, you may use dental picks and interproximal brushes to clean hard-to-reach areas. However, it’s worth noting that while water flossers can remove large pieces of debris, they can’t eliminate the biofilm from teeth surfaces.   

Clean Your Tongue 

Your tongue is like a sponge that holds bacteria. For this reason, it’s best to brush your tongue whenever you brush your teeth gently. You can also use a tongue scraper to ensure thorough cleaning. 

Rinse with Antibacterial Mouthwash 

Besides washing away the remaining traces of food and debris, rinsing your mouth with an antibacterial mouthwash after brushing and flossing removes plaque and keeps harmful bacteria at bay. Moreover, use an alcohol-free formula to prevent xerostomia or dry mouth. 

patient smiles at camera before getting a treatment performed by a Palm Beach Gardens dentist

Looking for a Palm Beach Gardens Dentist? 

At Smiles in the Gardens, we’re dedicated to helping you achieve a healthy and beautiful smile. Contact us today to make an appointment. 

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The staff at Smiles at the gardens was amazing, as soon as I walked in Dulcie made me feel right at home. She gave me a very informative tour of the facility making me feel super comfortable right away. I then was introduced to my hygienist Kristen, she was a bundle of joy and did a great job as well. Then I was sent over to Freda before seeing Dr. Schry both of them and all staff were very professional they took away my anxiety about seeing the dentist and made me feel like a part of the family. I highly recommend this office to anyone. Best dental experience of my life!
Joseph Nieves
Joseph Nieves
22:39 20 Nov 21
Needed to get a crown put back on. They got me in quickly (1 business day) and squeezed me in during lunch. My regular dentist, Dr. Etheredge was not in, so Dr. Watson handled. No drop off in talent!! He was great, made the repair, no pain, and I was out in 45 minutes!
Jerry Beer
Jerry Beer
13:39 04 Aug 21
Excellent customer service, knowledgeable dentists and wonderful kind staff. Dr Watson is my dentist but all of them are great! Maggie is the best hygienist! I Have been going here for over 20 years! The best... you will not be disappointed.
lisa dellapina
lisa dellapina
12:30 13 Aug 21
I highly recommend this practice for all of your dental needs! From Breckon getting me in for my urgent issue to the amazing dental assistant Bethany taking her time to explain every step of the procedure that I was going into and helping with my anxiety of the dentist. She was not only professional, but nurtured me through every step. Dr Etheredge was extremely courteous/understanding and made sure that I was comfortable throughout the entire process unlike any other doctor! Viviana from billing took patient care to an entire new level by using all of her compassion and professionalism to help with the stress of the financial side of dental care and finding an on site dentist to take care of my next procedure! This office truly cares cares for their patients! Thank you!
Qwantavious Bennett
Qwantavious Bennett
22:32 06 Oct 21
A very happy patient for many years. I totally trust them. They treat you like family. Everyone is up close and personal. I recommend their dental plan option.
Kaye Barnoske
Kaye Barnoske
23:15 04 Jun 21
Smiles in the Gardens has been my dental practice for over 20 years. Six members of my family also see the dentists and hygienists there. You are told right up front whether insurance will cover your treatment. They have an in-house dental plan that is available to anyone, which in the long run, is a better deal than dental insurance. Recently, one of my family members met and was treated by Dr. Barry who he likes very much, and who he felt was very competent and thorough. My dentist is Dr. Etheredge and he is a top-notch, 5-⭐️ dentist! We all feel very lucky to have found this practice!
Love Florida
Love Florida
02:12 02 Dec 22
Can't say enough Amazing things about the Entire Staff at Smiles In The Gardens. I'm 50 yrs old and out of any dentist or doctors office I've been to they are Top Notch! Very Friendly, Informative, Knowledgeable, and Extremely Helpful Staff and I do mean Everyone from the front desk assistant to the Dentist themselves, and the Entire Staff. Definitely the Cleanest Doctors Office I've ever visited and the Decor is Beautiful. Service was Exceptional, and Over The Top! Thank you to Everyone there!
Jesse Harris
Jesse Harris
23:46 03 Nov 22
I met Marivel for the first time today, and I have to say what an absolute delight.I have not had a thorough cleaning like this in years. She was extremely thorough extremely knowledgeable took her time went over x-rays with me and explained a lot to me very very thorough. I highly recommend her for a cleaning. Her personality is the best.!!!!!!
David Wallick
David Wallick
15:31 18 Nov 22
I was recently referred by my friend Heather and I couldn’t be more impressed with this office. I had 2 fillings and an extraction done today. Dr Etheredge is awesome and even better are his two assistants Diana and Bethany. They took such good care of me. Thank you!
Shea Hoffman
Shea Hoffman
22:22 02 Sep 22
My dental hygienist Nika is awesome and does a wonderful job all the time!! She is very easy to talk too and just makes the overall experience great. I also had a chance to meet Dr NIJEM during my visit. He was very friendly & took the time to recommend products to give me an even better smile. Thank you, Rogers.
Rod Fin
Rod Fin
17:40 27 Jan 23
I am very happy at smile of the gardens. Dr Barry is amazing and the rest of the staff. Lisbet was great at cleaning my teeth today and was attentive at my concerns. She goes above and beyond and it shows that she really cares about you. Lisbet is awesome. 😀
Dawn Amoroso
Dawn Amoroso
14:00 07 Dec 22
I feel like I have lived my life in a dentist chair. I have had both good and bad experiences. Someone recommended Smiles in the Gardens after I had one expensive, bad experience with a dentist. Well, I can happily say I finally found the right dentist! Hallelujah! I had to have extensive work done and Dr Laszlo explained everything to me before we began….after 4 months of healing, I finally got my new teeth and I look wonderful, even if I do say so myself. I couldn’t be happier. Dr Laszlo and his assistant Freda are so knowledgeable and experienced. I just love them both. You will too!!!
Connie Clark
Connie Clark
17:04 11 May 23
Smiles In The Gardens is a wonderful dental office with a very kind staff! Lisbet, my dental hygienist is exceptional. She is very professional and she goes above and beyond to make sure you are comfortable. She is also a very warm and considerate person who makes going to the dental office a pleasant experience!
Marlene Kiriazis
Marlene Kiriazis
19:48 17 Oct 24
Smiles in the gardens! I recently had the pleasure of visiting Smiles in the Gardens Dentist Office, and I must say that it was truly an exceptional experience from start to finish. From the moment I walked in, I was greeted with warm smiles and a friendly atmosphere that immediately put me at ease. The staff at Smiles in the Gardens are truly top-notch. Not only are they highly professional and knowledgeable, but they are also incredibly caring and attentive. From the receptionists to the dental hygienists, everyone I encountered during my visit was friendly, welcoming, and dedicated to providing the best possible care. The dentists at Smiles in the Gardens are nothing short of amazing. Not only are they skilled practitioners, but they also take the time to listen to their patients and address any concerns they may have. During my appointment, the dentist took the time to explain each step of the process and ensure that I was comfortable throughout the entire visit.I left Smiles in the Gardens Dentist Office feeling confident in the care I had received and grateful for the positive experience. The level of professionalism, expertise, and genuine care displayed by the staff and dentists at this practice is truly commendable. If you are looking for a dentist office that provides exceptional care in a welcoming environment, I highly recommend Smiles in the Gardens. Thank you to the entire team for a wonderful experience—I will definitely be returning for all of my dental needs in the future!
Regina Wortham
Regina Wortham
23:51 20 May 24
I was nervous about going to a new dental practice. I have to say the welcome I received and the professionalism of the staff at Smiles in the Garden exceeded my expectations. Dr Nijem was the dentist I chose based on a family member’s recommendation. He was kind and gentle and gave thorough explanations about the condition of my teeth and treatment that may be needed in the future. I highly recommend this practice.
Patricia Lynn wiseman
Patricia Lynn wiseman
22:51 11 Jul 24
I had wonderful experience here. The staff is kind and welcoming. They address any concerns I’ve had and took excellent care of my dental health. Lisbet is the sweetest and makes my visits comfortable.
Michaela Kalkbrenner
Michaela Kalkbrenner
22:55 15 Oct 24
5 star experience seeing Seana and Dr. Nijem today for my wisdom tooth removal. They were so friendly, gentle, and personable. Appointment was a breeze, thank you so much for taking care of me :)
Molly Cianchette
Molly Cianchette
17:20 06 Aug 24
Sara Scaggs is gentle, thorough, and personable at every visit. She always takes her time and I am ecstatic about the results. I hope she can be the dental hygienist for our future family one day because I trust her to give them the best experience! So grateful to have met her and have her as my dental hygienist!!!
Emily Smith
Emily Smith
13:13 17 Nov 24
Smiles in the Gardens is the best. Dr. Laszlo and Lisbet always provide exceptional care - making every visit easy and enjoyable. The entire staff treats you like family. Highly recommend this office!
Jessica Trepcos
Jessica Trepcos
22:23 05 Nov 24
I recently visited my dentist ( Omar Nijem) for a tooth extraction, and I must say, it was an unexpectedly pleasant experience. The dentist was incredibly skilled and professional, making what could have been a nerve-wracking procedure feel straightforward and comfortable. They explained each step clearly, which helped ease my anxiety, and the actual extraction was quick and nearly painless. The care and attention to detail during the procedure were outstanding, and I felt well-supported throughout. I highly recommend this dentist for anyone needing dental care—they truly know how to make their patients feel at ease!”
hamsa masri
hamsa masri
12:51 15 Nov 24
I can’t say enough great things about Smiles in the Gardens Dentistry! The entire staff is a pleasure to interact with—so friendly and welcoming from start to finish. My dentist was incredibly skilled, making the whole experience smooth and comfortable. If you’re looking for a top-notch dental office with amazing care, I highly recommend.
Peter Menke
Peter Menke
14:58 02 Dec 24
I have been going here for a few years now. I first started seeing Dr.B he did a fill in and gave me a referral for braces.Dr.B did a wonderful job.Dr.Bleft this office and I got a new doctor Dr.L who seem like he just got out of school. When I came for a cleaning he told me I needed a fill in but and just so I know he has never done a filling in someone with braces. I don’t why I let him do it but I trusted this office. When he finished my fill in he told me to spit and a bunch of blood and my gums came out when I spit. I came back again because the filling started coming out. He “fixed” it and did the ugliest fill in ever. And then told me I needed to see a periodontist because my gum is missing where he did the filling. I will never and haven’t gone back again. I actually want to keep all my teeth hince why I go to the dentist but these people and Dr.L don’t care about people. I’m they have cost me so much money and my orthodontist has record and x-rays from right before he did the fill in.
Mariahly Corporan
Mariahly Corporan
16:37 27 Dec 24
Lisbet Vasquez was thorough and gentle during the cleaning, taking the time to explain each step. She demonstrated a deep knowledge of dental hygiene and was very attentive to my specific needs. It's clear that she genuinely cares about her patients' oral health.
Desert Rose
Desert Rose
22:36 01 Dec 24
Dr. Laszlo and Freda are amazing! They made the entire process of going to the dentist easy and enjoyable. Good people doing good work. The type of business you want to support and be loyal to!
Emma Martin
Emma Martin
19:52 07 Jan 25
I had such a wonderful experience at the Smiles in the Gardens office! From the moment I walked in, I felt comfortable and welcomed. Dr. Laszlo and his team (Freda, Ellie) are incredibly understanding and patient, taking the time to explain everything clearly and making sure I felt at ease throughout the entire visit. Dr. Laszlo was professional, kind, and genuinely took the time to listen to my concerns. It’s clear that they prioritize their patients’ comfort and well-being. I highly recommend this office to anyone looking for a friendly, supportive dental team for cosmetic work!
Christy Maxey
Christy Maxey
19:50 29 Jan 25
There are professionals, and then there are people like Dr. Omar Nijem — who turn their work into a true act of care and kindness. He has that vision, he has that taste. Dr. Omar Nijem has a rare gift—not just in his expertise but in his ability to make every patient feel comfortable, valued, and genuinely cared for. His gentle but strong hands and reassuring presence transform what could be a stressful experience into something calming and even uplifting. DR OMAR IS A VERY TALENTED DOCTOR! He doesn’t just fix teeth, he restores confidence, eases fears, and takes the time to truly understand each patient’s needs and finds the best solution. I couldn’t say enough kind words how grateful I am to you and to your whole team who had worked with me ❤️ Thank you!
Anna A
Anna A
04:02 08 Feb 25
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