Start the year with a healthy smile
A new year is the perfect opportunity to refresh your daily habits, including your oral hygiene routine. While most of us focus on eating better or exercising more, good oral health is equally important for overall wellbeing.
Establishing a consistent routine helps prevent plaque build-up, gum disease, and tooth decay. With the right tools and techniques, you can make this the year you achieve your healthiest smile yet.
Why your oral hygiene routine matters
Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that constantly forms on teeth and gums. If not removed, it can harden into tartar, leading to gingivitis (gum inflammation) and potentially periodontitis (advanced gum disease).
Poor oral hygiene doesn’t just affect your mouth, it’s linked to wider health issues such as heart disease and diabetes. By brushing, cleaning between teeth, and maintaining regular dental check-ups, you can reduce bacteria and protect both your oral and general health.
Building a better daily routine
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The best oral hygiene routines are simple, consistent, and easy to follow. Aim to:
- Brush twice a day for two minutes using a fluoride toothpaste.
- Clean between your teeth daily - this is where most plaque hides.
- Replace your toothbrush or brush head every 3–4 months.
- Avoid snacking frequently to reduce acid attacks on enamel.
- Visit your dentist or hygienist regularly for professional advice and care.
These small steps make a big difference in preventing gum disease and keeping your smile fresh all year round.
Brushing alone isn’t enough
Even the most thorough brushing can miss up to 40% of tooth surfaces, the areas between your teeth and just below the gumline. That’s why interdental cleaning is essential.
Traditional string floss can be fiddly and time-consuming, especially for people with braces, implants, or dexterity issues. A Waterpik™ water flosser offers an easier, more effective way to clean these hard-to-reach areas.
Once introduced, you can simply refer to the water flosser for the rest of the piece.
Why water flossing makes oral care easier
Water flossers use a gentle stream of pulsating water to remove food debris and bacteria between teeth and below the gumline.
They’re:
- Clinically proven to remove up to 99.9% of plaque from treated areas (in vitro).
- Up to 50% more effective than string floss for improving gum health.
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Gentle and easy to use, making them ideal for everyone — including those with braces, implants, or bridges.
Adding a water flosser to your daily routine helps you achieve a deeper clean and healthier gums, with minimal effort.
A fresh start for your smile
This year, make your oral hygiene routine a priority. With just a few minutes each day, and the help of a water flosser, you can improve your gum health, reduce plaque, and keep your smile bright all year long.
➡ For NHS advice, see NHS - Healthy teeth and gums