What Your Dentist Wishes You’d Do Between Visits

Most people think great oral health depends on their dentist. But what you do between visits matters just as much. If you’ve ever wondered what your dentist wishes you’d do between visits in Hickory, you’re in the right place. Dr. Thomas Pardue and the team at Hickory Heights Dental want to share the habits that make the biggest difference for your smile.

The good news? None of these tips require expensive equipment. Small, consistent actions protect your teeth, gums, and overall health every single day. Let’s walk through the most important steps you can take between appointments.

Master the Right Brushing Technique Between Visits in Hickory

Brushing twice a day sounds simple. But most people rush through it and miss the spots that matter most. Dr. Pardue recommends spending a full two minutes each time you brush. That means 30 seconds per quadrant of your mouth.

Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Hold the brush at a 45-degree angle toward your gumline. Use gentle, circular strokes — not aggressive back-and-forth scrubbing. Hard scrubbing wears down enamel and irritates gum tissue over time.

Here are the most common brushing mistakes to avoid:

• Brushing too hard or too fast
• Missing the back molars and inner surfaces
• Using a worn-out toothbrush past three months
• Rinsing immediately after brushing, which washes away fluoride
• Skipping nighttime brushing before bed

Electric toothbrushes can help you brush more effectively. They remove more plaque than manual brushes for many patients. Ask Dr. Pardue which type works best for your specific needs at your next visit.

Floss Every Day — No Excuses

Flossing is the single most skipped home care step. Yet it cleans 35% of each tooth’s surface that your toothbrush simply can’t reach. Skipping it means plaque builds up between teeth every day. That buildup leads to cavities, gum disease, and bad breath.

Floss at least once per day, ideally before bed. Use about 18 inches of floss and wrap it around your fingers. Slide it gently between each tooth and curve it in a C-shape around each tooth’s base. Never snap floss into your gums — that causes irritation and bleeding.

If traditional floss feels awkward, try these alternatives:

• Floss picks or threaders for easier grip
• Water flossers for people with braces or bridges
• Interdental brushes for wider gaps between teeth
• Pre-threaded flossers for patients with limited dexterity

Consistency matters more than perfection. Even flossing four or five days per week is far better than skipping it entirely. Build the habit, and your gums will thank you within two to three weeks.

Watch What You Eat and Drink in Hickory

Your diet has a direct impact on your oral health. Sugary and acidic foods feed the bacteria that cause tooth decay. Frequent snacking — even on healthy foods — keeps your mouth in an acidic state longer. That environment weakens enamel over time.

Dr. Pardue recommends limiting sugary drinks like soda, sports drinks, and sweet tea. These are especially harmful because they coat every surface of your teeth. If you do drink them, use a straw and rinse with water afterward. Never sip sugary drinks slowly over long periods.

Foods that actually support oral health include:

• Crunchy vegetables like carrots and celery that stimulate saliva
• Dairy products like cheese and yogurt that strengthen enamel
• Leafy greens high in calcium and folic acid
• Water — especially fluoridated tap water here in Hickory
• Nuts and seeds that provide minerals without added sugar

Staying hydrated is especially important. Dry mouth reduces saliva, which your body uses to neutralize acids and wash away bacteria. Drink water throughout the day to keep your mouth healthy between meals.

Use the Right Products and Know When to Call

The dental care aisle can be overwhelming. Not every product labeled

Ready to take the next step? Contact our team today to schedule your appointment — we look forward to helping you achieve a healthier, more confident smile.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I be flossing between dental visits?

You should floss at least once daily, preferably before bedtime, to remove food debris and plaque from areas your toothbrush can’t reach. Most dentists in Hickory recommend making flossing part of your evening routine to prevent gum disease and cavities before they develop.

What’s the best way to brush my teeth at home?

Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste, brushing for at least two minutes twice a day with gentle circular motions. Avoid aggressive scrubbing, which can damage your gums and enamel, and make sure to brush along the gumline where plaque tends to accumulate.

Can I skip brushing if I rinse with mouthwash?

No—mouthwash is a helpful supplement to your oral hygiene routine, but it cannot replace brushing and flossing. Mouthwash can reach some areas your toothbrush misses and help freshen your breath, but only mechanical cleaning with a toothbrush removes plaque buildup effectively.

What foods and drinks should I avoid between dental appointments?

Limit sugary snacks, acidic beverages like soda and citrus juices, and sticky candies that feed harmful bacteria and erode enamel. If you do consume these items, try to rinse your mouth with water afterward and wait at least 30 minutes before brushing to avoid damaging softened enamel.

How can I reduce tooth sensitivity between visits?

Use a desensitizing toothpaste containing potassium nitrate and avoid acidic foods and whitening products that may trigger sensitivity. If sensitivity persists despite home care efforts, contact your Hickory dentist, as it could indicate a cavity or gum recession requiring professional treatment.