How to Clean Your Teeth
By Dr. David Mishler, Periodontist at Total Care Dental
Maintaining a healthy, vibrant smile isn’t just about brushing twice a day—it’s about how you clean your teeth. As a periodontist, I see firsthand the difference proper home care makes in long-term oral and overall health. In this guide, I’ll walk you through the most effective ways to clean your teeth, why it matters, and how Total Care Dental supports your journey to whole-body wellness.
Why Proper Teeth Cleaning Matters
Brushing and flossing aren’t just about fresh breath—they’re about protecting the bone, gum tissue, and ligaments that support your teeth. In my surgical practice, I regularly see the consequences of neglecting oral hygiene: bone loss, dental infections, and implant failure.
For example, one of my patients suffered a traumatic bicycle accident that resulted in the loss of his front teeth. After a carefully performed bone regeneration procedure, we rebuilt enough structure to place stable implants. But none of that would have been possible without a thoroughly clean environment before surgery.
To prevent complications like tooth decay, gum infection, and bone loss, daily care must go beyond just brushing—it must be strategic, intentional, and thorough.
What Happens When You Don’t Clean Your Teeth Correctly
Failing to remove plaque and tartar daily can lead to infections, gum disease, and ultimately tooth loss. In one case, a patient came in with recurring infections between two implants. Upon examination, I discovered a large chunk of tartar under the gum line. That tartar caused bone loss around both implants—damage that could’ve been avoided with proper home care.
According to the CDC, 47% of adults over 30 have some form of periodontitis or periodontal disease, and that percentage increases with age. Gum recession, bleeding gums, and persistent bad breath are all warning signs. Left untreated, gum disease affects both your oral health and overall health.
How to Clean Your Teeth the Right Way
You may think you’re brushing well, but many people miss critical areas—especially along the gum line, inner surfaces, and chewing surfaces where food particles and bacteria collect. Here’s how to optimize your oral hygiene routine:
1. Use the Right Tools
Soft-bristled brush or an electric toothbrush with pressure sensors
Non-fluoride toothpaste or tooth powder like Dr. Michelle’s Living Well Tooth Powder
Dental floss, interdental brushes, or dental tape for tight spaces
Optional: Non-fluoride mouthwash or Dr. Michelle’s Living Well Herbal Mouth Rinse, which supports the microbiome and soothes gum tissue
2. Master the Brushing Technique
Use a manual toothbrush or electric toothbrush with a small head for better access to back teeth and inner surfaces
Angle the bristles at 45 degrees toward the gum line
Gently brush all surfaces—outer, inner, chewing, and inside surfaces—for two full minutes
Don’t use hard bristles or apply excessive pressure—this can cause gum recession and enamel wear
3. Clean Between Your Teeth
Use dental floss, interdental brushes, or water flossers to remove food debris and plaque between teeth
Daily flossing reduces your risk of both tooth decay and periodontal disease
4. Address the Whole Mouth
Don’t forget to scrape your tongue to reduce bacteria and freshen breath
Rinse thoroughly with water or a gentle mouthwash to remove excess toothpaste
Dr. Michelle’s Remineralizing Tooth Powder
Holistic Tips for Healthy Teeth and Gums
At Total Care Dental, we believe oral hygiene should support your whole-body health. That’s why we offer and recommend products like the Living Well with Dr. Michelle Mouth Rinse and Tooth Powder, designed with biocompatible, non-toxic ingredients that help keep your teeth and gums in optimal condition.
These products:
Support your oral microbiome with herbal, natural ingredients
Help reduce acidity in the mouth
Promote healing of inflamed or damaged gum tissue
Offer a fluoride-free option for those with sensitivities
You can explore these products and more in our Living Well with Dr. Michelle shop.
Why Some Still Struggle—And What to Do About It
Occasionally, even patients with excellent brushing habits continue to struggle with gum inflammation or plaque buildup. This is where professional cleanings and personalized guidance come in.
Our dental hygienists are trained to clean areas you simply can’t reach with a toothbrush. We also evaluate your brushing technique, tools, and lifestyle habits to make sure your routine is truly working for you.
At Total Care Dental, we recognize that optimal oral health is a team effort. You maintain clean teeth at home, and we support you with regular hygiene visits every 3–6 months, depending on your needs. We also look at your diet, systemic health, and supplement use, because oral health doesn’t exist in a vacuum.
Your Routine, Elevated: The Right Brushing Technique
If you’re still wondering whether you’re using the right brushing technique, here’s a quick checklist:
Brush twice a day with a soft bristled brush
Focus on all the surfaces of each tooth—don’t skip the gum line
Use gentle pressure and short strokes
Replace your toothbrush or brush head every 3 months, or sooner if frayed
Learning the proper brushing technique can make a huge difference in keeping your teeth clean and preventing issues like called calculus buildup or gum inflammation.
Let’s Take Care of Your Smile—Together
If you’re ready to take the next step in your oral health journey, we’re here to help. Whether you’re dealing with gum disease, dental implants, or just want expert advice on your at-home routine, our team at Total Care Dental is committed to supporting your own dental health and overall wellness.
Schedule your new patient exam at Total Care Dental today and let’s build a healthier smile—together.
Dr. David Mishler
Dr. David Mishler is a skilled periodontist with a passion for precision and whole-body health. After graduating from the University of the Pacific Dental School and building two successful practices in Alaska, he advanced his surgical training at NYU and now leads the surgical department at Total Care Dental.
A lifelong learner, Dr. Mishler has completed extensive training in implants, tissue grafting, lasers, and more. He’s also volunteered with the Mission of Mercy and mentored youth through the Boy Scouts. His work combines advanced skill with genuine compassion for every patient he serves.
