(626) 577-2017
02-04-2026
The start of a new year often brings a surge of motivation. We buy gym memberships, reorganize our closets, and promise to drink more water. But there's also a crucial part of our well-being that often goes overlooked: maintaining a healthy smile.
Small daily habits play a significant role in long-term oral health. The choices you make every day can impact not only how your smile looks, but how healthy it stays over time. Whether you want to brighten your smile, address a nagging toothache, or get back on track with routine care, Dr. B and the team at Prestige Dental Pasadena are here to guide you. Let's explore the essential habits that will help keep your teeth healthy and your smile bright year-round.
Brushing Techniques Recommended by Your Pasadena Dentist
It sounds simple enough—put paste on the brush and brush your teeth. However, many people rush through this process or use techniques that don't effectively remove plaque. If you want to keep cavities at bay this year, it's time to refine your routine.
The Two-Minute Rule
Most people brush for about 45 seconds, which isn't enough to clean all tooth surfaces effectively. Dr. B recommends brushing at least twice a day, ideally in the morning and before bed, for about two minutes each time. This ensures every surface, including front, back, and chewing areas, is thoroughly cleaned. Using a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste protects enamel and prevents sensitivity.
Don't Forget the Details: The Importance of Flossing
If there is one habit that gets skipped the most, it's flossing. We get it—it can feel like a chore, especially when you're tired at the end of the day. But brushing alone misses about 35% of your tooth surfaces. The bristles just can't reach tight spaces between teeth or under the gumline where plaque accumulates.
Making Flossing a Daily Habit
Daily flossing prevents cavities, gum disease, and bad breath. To floss correctly, gently slide the floss between your teeth, curve it into a "C" shape against each tooth, and move it up and down without snapping it into the gums. Many patients report healthier-looking gums after incorporating daily flossing into their routine.
The Role of Mouthwash in a Complete Oral Hygiene Routine
Mouthwash isn't a substitute for brushing or flossing, but it is a powerful addition. It can reach areas your brush and floss might miss, reduce mouth acid, clean hard-to-reach areas, and help remineralize teeth.
Dr. B recommends selecting a mouthwash that meets your specific needs—fluoride for cavity prevention, antibacterial for gum health, or alcohol-free for sensitive mouths. Used once or twice daily, mouthwash provides an added layer of protection as part of a complete oral care routine.
You Are What You Eat: Diet and Dental Health
What you eat plays a significant role in your dental health. Sugary and acidic foods—such as candy, soda, and processed snacks—can contribute to tooth decay and enamel erosion when consumed frequently. Limiting these foods, especially between meals, can help protect your teeth.
On the other hand, foods rich in calcium, fiber, and vitamins support strong teeth and gums. Dairy products, leafy greens, apples, carrots, nuts, and lean proteins all promote better oral health. Drinking plenty of water throughout the day also helps wash away food particles and neutralize acids in the mouth.
Preventive Care and Regular Check-ups at Prestige Dental Pasadena
Even with excellent at-home care, regular dental check-ups are essential. Visiting a trusted dentist in Pasadena, CA, allows potential issues to be detected early, often before they become painful or costly. Prestige Dental emphasizes preventive care as the foundation of long-term oral health. These visits also provide an opportunity to ask questions and receive personalized advice for improving your daily dental routine.
The new year is a great time to recommit to habits that support your health—and your smile deserves the same attention. Proper brushing, daily flossing, a balanced diet, and regular dental visits all contribute to a healthier, more confident smile throughout the year.
If one of your resolutions is to prioritize your dental health, schedule an appointment with Prestige Dental Pasadena, your trusted dentist in Pasadena, CA. Our team is ready to guide you toward a brighter, healthier smile this year.
