The premise for this blog? A healthy smile is more than just using a toothbrush and toothpaste. We all know the basics: brush twice daily (ideally for 2 minutes) and floss regularly. But that’s just the beginning of achieving a healthy, fresh and radiant smile. Oral health isn’t only about avoiding cavities and bad breath; it’s about nurturing your entire mouth with daily habits beyond brushing.
“The best whitening routine is the one that’s consistent. Whiter smiles are built over time with daily care." -Dr. Mark Botha, Family Dentist
But how do you cut through the marketing noise to determine which dental care products are worth adding to your bathroom cabinet and daily dental regimen?
Here are our 5 simple, practical daily habits that can seriously level up your dental game. And yes, your dentist will be impressed.
1. Start using a tongue cleaner
This often-overlooked oral health tool deserves to rise to the top of your shopping list. Did you know that your tongue harbours bacteria that cause bad breath and plaque build-up? Brushing your tongue with your toothbrush isn’t enough. A tongue cleaner or scraper is specially designed to remove bacteria, food debris, and dead cells from the surface of your tongue. (Of all the dental accessory products out there - besides a toothbrush and toothpaste - this one deserves pride of place in your oral hygiene routine.)
Benefits of a tongue cleaner:
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Fresher breath
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Better taste perception
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Reduced bacterial load in your mouth
Pro tip: Use it every morning before brushing to start your day feeling ultra-fresh.
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2. Switch to interdental brushes
Flossing is fantastic, but interdental brushes are a game-changer, especially if you have wider gaps between your teeth, braces, or dental work. These tiny tools slide between teeth to remove plaque and food particles that your toothbrush simply can’t reach.
Use them gently once a day and say goodbye to gum inflammation and hello to healthy pink gums.
Why you’ll love them:
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Easier to handle than floss
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Ideal for hard-to-reach spots
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A must for those with bridges, braces, or implants
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3. Stay Hydrated for a Healthy Smile
It may sound too simple, but drinking enough water is one of the most powerful ways to protect your teeth and gums. Saliva is your mouth’s natural defence against cavities, and dehydration reduces its flow.
Hydration wins:
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Washes away food particles
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Balances mouth pH
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Keeps gums supple and healthy
Make water your go-to drink throughout the day - your teeth will thank you.
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4. Embrace Fresh Breath Strategies
Let’s face it: nothing is more confidence-boosting than fresh breath. But mints and gum often just mask the problem.
Instead, try these habits for breath that stays fresh all day:
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Use an alcohol-free mouthwash
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Clean your tongue daily
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Snack on crunchy raw veggies like carrots or celery
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Rinse with water after meals
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Avoid breath-killers like onions and garlic
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5. Snack Smarter
Every bite you take affects your dental health. Sticky sweets, frequent snacking, and acidic drinks can erode enamel and cause tooth decay. The good news? Some foods are actually good for your teeth, so find a way to add those rich in calcium, phosphorus, and fibre to your lunchbox or meal planner. When you eat smart, your teeth shine brighter, naturally. (Maybe an apple a day keeping the dentist away is not an old wives’ tale after all.)
Smile-friendly snacks:
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Cheese (neutralises acid)
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Apples and carrots (natural toothbrush effect)
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Almonds (rich in calcium)
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Leafy, crunchy greens (high in folic acid)
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Lean proteins, including tofu, contain phosphorus and protein, which are important for building and repairing tissues in the mouth
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Dark chocolate contains CBH, a compound that helps harden tooth enamel.
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Ready to Upgrade Your Oral Care Routine?
Small habits make a big difference, and the right tools make them even easier. That’s why shopping at Smile Shop - South Africa’s trusted online destination for premium oral care products - is the go-to online destination for your entire family.
At Smile Shop, you’ll find:
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Manual and electric toothbrushes
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Whitening toothpastes and kits
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High-quality tongue cleaners and scrapers
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Interdental brushes in a variety of sizes
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Alcohol-free mouthwashes and fresh breath sprays
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Dental kits and accessories that make self-care simple and stylish
Your smile is worth the extra care. Beyond brushing, make these habits part of your daily routine and discover how powerful small changes can be.
A healthier, happier smile starts with you, and Smile Shop is here to help you shine.
And because it’s all online, you can shop from the comfort of your home and have everything delivered to your door - fast, secure, and hassle-free.