Taking better care of your teeth and gums doesn’t require a complete lifestyle overhaul. In fact, the most powerful changes often come from the small things you do consistently, like brushing with purpose, flossing the right way, and using tools that actually work for your mouth.
If you’re ready to upgrade your dental hygiene routine and give your smile the care it deserves, here’s a step-by-step guide to help you do just that.
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1. Brush More Intentionally
It’s easy to fall into the trap of rushing through your brushing, but slowing down and brushing with purpose makes a big difference.
- Brush twice a day for two full minutes
- Use a soft-bristled toothbrush angled toward the gumline
- Gently clean all surfaces — front, back, and chewing areas
- Replace your brush or electric head every three to four months
(If using an electric toothbrush, hover over each tooth rather than scrubbing. This gives your brush head the needed time to oscillate and fully clean your teeth.)
This small shift from just brushing to brushing well can be the first step toward healthier gums, less buildup, and noticeably better oral health.
2. Floss Daily (And Do It the Right Way)
Many hygienists we’ve worked with have said that if their patients had to choose between brushing or flossing, they would rather have them floss! That’s how crucial flossing is for healthy teeth and gums. Flossing removes plaque and food particles that brushing simply can’t reach, especially between teeth and under the gumline (where cavities most often form). Skipping it means leaving behind bacteria that contribute to bad breath, tooth decay, and gum inflammation.
- Floss once (preferably twice) per day using a slow, gentle motion
- Curve the floss around each tooth in a C-shape and slide below the gumline
- If you find string floss difficult, consider switching to a tool that makes flossing easier and more comfortable
3. Clean Your Tongue
Your tongue harbors bacteria that contribute to bad breath and plaque buildup. Slate creator, Dr. Snyder, once compared not cleaning your tongue to mopping the hardwood floors and forgetting to vacuum the carpet. A lot of stuff gets left behind! Cleaning your tongue not only rids your mouth of leftover bacteria but also helps your mouth feel fresher and more balanced.
- The Slate Flosser includes a built-in triple-row tongue scraper for easy, effective cleaning
- Use a tongue scraper or the back of your toothbrush (A tongue scraper is preferable.)
- Start at the back of the tongue and gently pull forward
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Scrape 3-5 times and rinse between each scrape
4. Stay Hydrated Throughout the Day
Saliva helps protect your teeth by neutralizing acids and washing away debris. When your mouth is dry, bacteria thrive. Drinking enough water throughout the day helps keep your mouth in balance and supports long-term oral health.
- Drink water after meals and snacks
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Avoid sugary drinks that can dry out your mouth or damage enamel
5. Use Tools That Actually Help You Build a Routine
If your oral hygiene routine feels like a chore, you’re less likely to keep up with it. That’s why it’s important to use tools that feel good to use, deliver results, and make the process easier.
The Slate Flosser is a dentist-invented, user-loved electric flosser designed to simplify and elevate your daily routine.
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Patent-Pending Gum Sweeps help clean along the gumline while gently stimulating circulation
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Chemical-Free Woven Floss means no PTFE or wax coatings — just a safe, effective clean
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Multi-Use Floss Heads last for a full week, reducing waste and effort
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Up to 14,000 Sonic Vibrations Per Minute remove plaque from tight spaces
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Built-In Tongue Scraper helps round out your routine and combat bad breath
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USB-C Charging keeps things simple and modern
Improving your dental hygiene isn’t about perfection — it’s about progress. With the right tools, a few mindful habits, and a commitment to consistency, a healthier smile is within reach.
Smarter Hygiene Starts Here - Get Your Slate Flosser