3 Habits To Kick Off the New Year That Keep Your Smile Bright Between Dental Visits
A bright, healthy smile doesn’t happen by accident — it’s the result of consistent habits practiced every day between dental visits. And if you’re interested in implementing healthy habits in the new year, the best way to make them stick is with daily choices that become a part of your lifestyle. While professional care is essential, what you do at home (and in your daily routine) plays a huge role in keeping your teeth looking and feeling their best.
Here are three simple, dentist-approved habits that can help you maintain a brighter smile all year long.
1. Daily Flossing: The Non-Negotiable Habit
Brushing alone only cleans about 60% of your tooth surfaces. Flossing reaches the tight spaces between teeth where plaque, food particles, and bacteria love to hide.
Why flossing matters:
Helps prevent cavities between teeth
Reduces gum inflammation and bleeding
Minimizes plaque buildup that can dull your smile
Pro tip:
Floss at least once a day — ideally before brushing at night — so fluoride toothpaste can reach between your teeth more effectively.
2. Professional Cleanings: Your Smile’s Reset Button
Even with great brushing and flossing habits, plaque can harden into tartar that can’t be removed at home. That’s where professional cleanings come in.
Benefits of regular cleanings:
Removes stubborn tartar and surface stains
Helps prevent gum disease and tooth decay
Keeps your smile noticeably brighter and healthier
Most patients benefit from cleanings every six months, though some may need more frequent visits depending on their oral health. At Calleros Dental, we tailor cleaning schedules to your individual needs.
3. Mindful Coffee & Wine Habits: Enjoy Without the Stains
We get it — coffee mornings and wine nights are part of life. But both can contribute to tooth staining over time if you’re not careful.
Smart ways to reduce staining:
Rinse with water after coffee or wine
Use a straw for iced beverages when possible
Avoid brushing immediately after acidic drinks — wait 30 minutes
Maintain regular whitening-safe toothpaste use (Reach out to us with questions on this or to learn more about our professional whitening treatments)
Being mindful doesn’t mean giving up what you love — it just means balancing enjoyment with good habits.
A Brighter Smile Starts With Consistency
The key to a healthy, radiant smile isn’t perfection — it’s consistency. By flossing daily, keeping up with professional cleanings, and being mindful of stain-causing drinks, you’ll protect your smile and keep it looking its best between visits.
If it’s been a while since your last cleaning or you’re curious about whitening options, our team is always happy to help you create a personalized plan for your smile.
Your smile deserves expert care — and a little daily love.