How can I improve my oral hygiene?

2 March
2023
How can I improve my oral hygiene?
Posted in Oral Care

Maintaining good oral hygiene is essential for a healthy mouth and overall wellbeing. Here are some tips to help you improve your oral hygiene:

  1. Brush twice a day: Brushing your teeth twice a day is one of the most important steps to maintaining good oral hygiene. Use a fluoride toothpaste and brush for at least two minutes each time, making sure to reach all surfaces of the teeth, including the back molars.

  2. Floss daily: Flossing is just as important as brushing, as it helps remove food particles and plaque from between the teeth and along the gum line. Use a floss pick or traditional floss, and be sure to clean between all teeth.

  3. Use mouthwash: Mouthwash can help freshen breath and kill bacteria that can cause cavities and gum disease. Look for a mouthwash with fluoride to help strengthen tooth enamel.

  4. Eat a healthy diet: A healthy diet can help promote good oral health by providing essential nutrients that help build strong teeth and gums. Avoid sugary and acidic foods and drinks, as they can increase the risk of cavities and erosion.

  5. Drink plenty of water: Drinking water helps flush away food particles and bacteria that can cause bad breath and tooth decay. It also helps keep the mouth hydrated, preventing dry mouth, which can lead to oral health problems.

  6. Don’t smoke: Smoking can cause a range of oral health problems, including bad breath, yellowing of teeth, and an increased risk of gum disease and oral cancer. Quitting smoking can improve your overall oral health and reduce the risk of these problems.

  7. Visit your dentist regularly: Regular dental check-ups and cleanings are essential for maintaining good oral health. Your dentist can identify and treat any dental problems before they become more serious, and provide advice on proper oral hygiene practices.

  8. Consider dental treatments: In addition to regular check-ups and cleanings, there are a range of dental treatments that can help improve your oral health, such as fluoride treatments, sealants, and orthodontic treatment. Talk to your dentist about which treatments may be right for you.

  9. Use a tongue scraper: Tongue scrapers can help remove bacteria and debris from the tongue, which can cause bad breath and other oral health problems. Use a gentle, back-and-forth motion to clean the surface of the tongue.

  10. Be gentle: When brushing and flossing, it’s important to be gentle to avoid damaging the teeth and gums. Use a soft-bristled brush and gentle pressure, and avoid scrubbing back and forth.

In summary, maintaining good oral hygiene requires a combination of daily habits and regular dental care. By following these tips, you can improve your oral health and reduce the risk of dental problems in the future. If you have any concerns about your oral health, be sure to talk to your dentist.

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First of all the staff is incredible from the time you check in through check out. Julianne assisted me at the front desk and she was all smiles and very helpful. Nicole was the hygienist who did my cleaning. She was thorough, fast and kind and didn't hurt me once. She also listened to me when I told her about a situation I was having in my mouth and handled it perfectly. Dr. Shry is great. I've been using him for too many years to remember. He has treated my whole family, my 4 children, who are now grown and me, who will keep going to him even after he retires. He addressed the issue in my mouth and made me feel calm and took away what I was concerned about. He did my exam that would have been done after my cleaning at that time so that when my cleaning was done I was free to go. Check out was easy as well and I signed up for a special package for my cleanings and my crowns that I scheduled. If you are looking for a dentist stop looking and call Smiles in the Gardens, you can't go wrong here. Thank you all at this office.
Robin Simon
Robin Simon
13:09 02 Aug 18
I had a wonderful experience with this office and its staff! I highly recommend considering this dental office if you are looking for one. They ensure you are comfortable throughout your entire appointment and communication is at their forefront. This office personalizes and caters to each of their patients. They are also organized and thorough throughout the exam. My dentist was Dr. Maria Estrada and my dental hygienist was Stephane.
Dana Marin
Dana Marin
15:16 10 Jul 18
My family moved to Florida just about a year ago. I needed to find a new dentist. I was up late one night and saw your tv commercial. It appealed to me because of the patient centered environment. Well, I am happy to report that I love being a patient of Dr. Watson and Bari. Dr. Watson is an awesome dentist with a wonderful way about him. Bari and the staff are exceptional, courteous and offer a beautiful and clean office environment. They aren't the cheapest, but who wants to go to a cheap dentist? You will find great value here.
Robert Petcove
Robert Petcove
12:32 07 Jul 18
This team went of their way to make my experience genuinely painless while providing highly professional expert dental services. They evaluated my status and detailed a program of care to restore my smile. Wonderful experience, thank you.
Olga Leddy
Olga Leddy
01:19 09 Aug 18
I have been going to Smiles in the Gardens for longer than I can remember. I recently moved to Lake Worth which makes it quite a drive for me - but I won't change my dentist- I love this staff and the warm, welcoming atmosphere. I was extremely afraid of the dentist due to some bad dentistry when I was younger. Dr. Schry has worked with me and now I have no fear - I trust him and his staff completely to make sure I'm taken care of and pain free.
Elaine McCarthy
Elaine McCarthy
12:27 15 Aug 18
The customer service in this office is excellent! I was greeted warmly by everyone that I encountered ( and it felt genuine). I was given a tour and introduced to staff in different areas of the practice, and presented with thoughtful complimentary gift. I was engaged in a "get to know me" kind of conversation with the dental hygienist. When she (Diana?) introduced me to Dr Etheredge she shared with him my "mini bio"..so he was able to learn a little about me as a person - and not only that I had tooth pain. He was amazing, engaging and knowledgeable as well. Overall, a great experience! "Six Stars"!
Cheryle Richardson
Cheryle Richardson
19:22 23 Aug 18
I can't believe I'm giving a dentist five stars but they truly are the best! If you have to do it, and you do, Smiles has the best people I've ever dealt with in any doc's office! I highly recommend Maggie and Dr Watson!!!
Deborah Fisher
Deborah Fisher
14:12 05 Sep 18
My first visit with them and it went great! From reception to billing everything was awesome. Very friendly and welcoming. Nicole did a great job on my cleaning. Very satisfied and looking forward to a long term relationship with this dentist.
Jim Cress
Jim Cress
11:41 29 Jun 19
While vacationing in the area, I cracked a tooth. After a google search for dentists near me and reading reviews, I called at 8:10 and was greeted by a very pleasant receptionist who scheduled me for 11:30 that morning. I received prompt, reasonably priced, excellent care. Dr. Estrada was excellent. She was thoughtful, pleasant and did a great job. Her assistant, Stephanie, was caring, courteous, and meticulous. Shelly handled my check out efficiently with a smile. This is the most pleasant, caring, efficient dental/medical office I have ever visited. If I lived near by, they would become my dental office. Outstanding!!! Thank you Smiles in the Garden Dentistry.
Steven Jones
Steven Jones
04:00 20 Jun 19
Smiles at the Gardens is a great Dentistry practice. The staff is always friendly, courteous and professional. You always feel welcomed and respected as a patient. They also provide the most appropriate treatment and recommendations for your oral health. I happy the practice is close to my home and I feel confident each time I visit that my oral health needs are always met.
John Kiefer
John Kiefer
15:56 18 May 19
Dr Watson has been taking care of my teeth for 30 years. when I first started with him I lived in Miami and drove to Palm Beach to be seen by him. He is thorough, conservative and excellent at what he does. 30 years ago this month he capped my upper teeth. They still look great and today he capped my lowers. Oh happy day!
june zanetti
june zanetti
15:11 11 May 19
My husband, myself, and my teen daughter have all attended this office. We all had a positive experience, and found that it is a lovely clean office, with professional friendly staff! From the minute you walk in everyone is very nice, caring and make you feel welcomed. The staff is very thorough in explaining your dental needs, and make you feel at ease before, during, and after treatment. Both my husband, and I are excited about having our smiles restored at Smiles in the Gardens :)
Millie Dunn
Millie Dunn
18:41 27 Mar 19
Wow! What a VIP experience! The real deal! Best customer experience I have had in a long time.... anywhere. When you walk in you are greeted with a warm welcome by the young woman at the front desk (I feel bad, I cannot remember her name - she is expecting) is extremely nice. She provided a tour of the entire facility and offered me water, coffee and tea. The staff is extremely informative and kind. I would like to specifically mention Freda and Dr. Watson - they were great! Super friendly. I cannot wait to go back! I would recommend to anyone who is in need of an awesome dental experience.
Stephanie Valdes
Stephanie Valdes
19:51 19 Jul 19
I have been seeing Dr. Watson for over 10 years! He is the best! Because he is so kind and considerate, he makes you feel so relaxed. I have confidence in his work and highly recommend him as your dentist! Bari, his assistant, understand your needs and gives that personalized attention! This is the ONLY dentist I will use; even if I have to drive all the way from Georgia if I have a problem in the summertime!
Mary Jo McEvoy
Mary Jo McEvoy
19:24 21 Jul 19
The whole Team at Smiles in the gardens is amazing. So warm and welcoming starting with the receptionist. Dr. Watson and is Assistant Freda were awesome, made me feel comfortable at all times. Freda's level of committment is outstanding. Job well done
mandy ruel
mandy ruel
01:35 27 Jul 19
Smiles in the Gardens is a very professional and friendly Dentistry. Megan did a wonderful job cleaning my teeth! I’m impressed at how they continually upgrade their technology to provide even better services for their patients!
John Henry
John Henry
12:13 27 Jul 19
Amazing cosmetic work. Fair and reasonable pricing. Combine that with very kind and caring staff and you've got a five-star rating. For complete transparency, my dentist is Dr. Maira Estrada and the hygienists I interact with the most are Bethany and Megan, both rockstars. Megan's technique to clean teeth is truly unique and much more effective than the traditional method. I've had other hygienists there and there all just as sweet and competent. Great place for your teeth!
Cory Murphy
Cory Murphy
17:36 10 Aug 19
Called for an emergency which would take about 2 hours. They got me in first appointment. Everyone from the front desk on was very professional. I am not the best patient i am very nervous. The whole process i felt relaxed and confident i picked the right place. Will give you the follow up when the entire process is finished! So far it's a 10!
Andrea Mosseri
Andrea Mosseri
19:40 20 Aug 19
While vacationing in the area, I cracked a tooth. After a google search for dentists near me and reading reviews, I called at 8:10 and was greeted by a very pleasant receptionist who scheduled me for 11:30 that morning. I received prompt, reasonably priced, excellent care. Dr. Estrada was excellent. She was thoughtful, pleasant and did a great job. Her assistant, Stephanie, was caring, courteous, and meticulous. Shelly handled my check out efficiently with a smile. This is the most pleasant, caring, efficient dental/medical office I have ever visited. If I lived near by, they would become my dental office. Outstanding!!! Thank you Smiles in the Garden Dentistry.
Steven Jones
Steven Jones
04:00 20 Jun 19
What an amazing experience! The professionalism, the care and dedication of everyone is amazing. Going to the dentist is pleasurable at Smiles in the Gardens! Thank you to Dr. Estrada and Bethany!
Bernadette Ramos
Bernadette Ramos
12:21 20 Sep 19
I am not a fan of dentists at all however, this is the most amazing, caring, practice I have ever been to. Everything, and I mean EVERYTHING is all about the patient! I was put at ease the moment I walked in the door and throughout my entire visit!! I'll never go anywhere else 😊
Cheryl Finch
Cheryl Finch
22:05 24 Sep 19
I just love everyone at Smiles in the Gardens! They always welcome me with open arms and are all so friendly! Dr. Etheredge is knowledgeable and never makes me feel that I ask too many questions, when I know I do!
Sara Feinstein
Sara Feinstein
14:23 02 Oct 19
What an amazing experience! The professionalism, the care and dedication of everyone is amazing. Going to the dentist is pleasurable at Smiles in the Gardens! Thank you to Dr. Estrada and Bethany!
Bernadette Ramos
Bernadette Ramos
13:19 28 Sep 19
We all know dentist can be a scary place BUT the whole staff makes you feel so comfortable and always treated so nice when you go there! Its great to have found a place when your nervous that makes you so at ease and treated like one of their own! I highly recommend this office to everyone!
Kristen Bell
Kristen Bell
13:22 29 Oct 19
I tried a dentist that was partially covered in my health plan but decided if I was going to let someone work on my teeth, I really need to feel comfortable. I came back happily. Professional & well taken care of and a clean office is important to me..
Bonnie Czirban
Bonnie Czirban
20:24 29 Oct 19
Smiles at the Gardens is a great Dentistry practice. The staff is always friendly, courteous and professional. You always feel welcomed and respected as a patient. They also provide the most appropriate treatment and recommendations for your oral health. I happy the practice is close to my home and I feel confident each time I visit that my oral health needs are always met. The staff is professional and friendly. They make you feel you are part of the family.
John Kiefer
John Kiefer
15:46 19 Oct 19
What an amazing experience! The professionalism, the care and dedication of everyone is amazing. Going to the dentist is pleasurable at Smiles in the Gardens! Thank you to Dr. Estrada and Bethany!
Bernadette Ramos
Bernadette Ramos
13:19 28 Sep 19
My first time at Smiles in the Gardens Dentistry. I had a nice experience with Ashlea the hygenist. Hopefully I will continue to have a good experience compared to what I have had experience with other local dentists.
marian delong
marian delong
00:38 17 Nov 19
What a wonderful surprise. A dentist's office you enjoy being in. From the front desk to Dr. Etheredge, everyone was friendly and seemed to love where they worked. Terrific experience.
Valerie Willingham
Valerie Willingham
14:50 05 Dec 19
I had the pleasure of joining " Smiles in the Gardens" dentistry family Thursday December 12th..Thankyou for such a warm welcome. I feel so confident I made the right choice!
Irene Malanga
Irene Malanga
15:37 15 Dec 19
They are genuine . If not they are amazing actors. They all make you feel welcome and secure. Glad to have finally found Dental care I fee good about. Thank you!
Marianne Storath
Marianne Storath
13:03 24 Dec 19
I have never had such a nice and warm welcome at a dentists office as this one! Upon coming in for my first consultation they took such good care of me offering great advice and I gotta say, I'm here to stay. :)
Julia Tran
Julia Tran
18:20 15 Jan 20
The staff at Smiles is at the same time friendly and professional. Years of excellent service have enabled me to develop a level of confidence and trust with the dentist and his staff.
David Mulholland
David Mulholland
16:28 16 Jan 20
The staff is friendly from beginning to the end of your visit. Dr. Watson and Bari make a great team and your comfort is their number one concern during any procedures. I highly recommend Smiles on the Gardens.
Yvonne Brunet
Yvonne Brunet
15:09 17 Jan 20
Perfect experience. The entire office is efficient and pleasant - great team work noted here. Dr. Schry is excellent utilizing his medical skills as well as demonstrating superb kindness. Also De and Brianna - excellent staff. This office truly cares for their patients.
Phyllis Herb
Phyllis Herb
11:32 30 Jan 20
Best Dentist and staff around! Up to date technology! One stop shop , I would not go anywhere else! Karissa was very attentive and informative!
MANNY Carzola
MANNY Carzola
15:14 05 Feb 20
I liked their friendly staff and how they welcomed me as a new patient. They listened to me and asked how I wanted to be receive information. If I wanted a lot of information or just to the bottom line. They asked my preferences on cosmetic or function and then they didn't try to sell me services that I wasn't interested in. I recommend Smiles in the Gardens to all of my friends.
Bryan King
Bryan King
18:54 17 Feb 20
This dental group is the BEST anywhere. They run an on-time practice, for which I am so appreciative, and maintain a level of professional-yet-friendly atmosphere at all times. Their expertise in all areas of dentistry is unmatched. We are fortunate to have these dentists in South Florida. My family members and I have been going to the practice for 15+ years. I HIGHLY RECOMMEND and feel so thankful for all they have done for us. Ten stars! ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Florida Living
Florida Living
17:49 23 May 20
Dave Wilson here. I needed dental care on an emergency basis and I am not a year-round resident in FL. Old friends of my wife recommended SmilesInTheGardens . They took me on as a new patient and Dr. Watson completely and permanently solved the problem quickly and economically.
Celeste Wilson
Celeste Wilson
13:45 27 May 20
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
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