Want a smile that turns heads and supports whole-body health? It’s all about consistency and care. At Monmouth Dental Arts, Dr. Adly and our expert team are here to help you protect your teeth, prevent problems, and feel confident every time you smile. 

Feel Confident Knowing You’re in Expert Hands! Dr. Adly leads our practice with years of experience. He is a Fellow of the Academy of General Dentistry (FAGD), a distinction that only about 6 percent of general dentists in the U.S. and Canada achieve. Our state-of-the-art office in Oakhurst, NJ, is built around you—your comfort, your care, and your goals.


Everyday Habits That Make a Big Impact

You don’t need complicated routines to keep your teeth and gums healthy. Just a few simple habits can make a world of difference:

1. Brush Twice a Day—The Right Way

Brushing your teeth twice a day is the foundation of good oral hygiene. But it’s not just about frequency—technique matters, too.

The ADA recommends using a soft-bristled toothbrush and brushing for two minutes each time. Use gentle, circular motions to clean all surfaces of every tooth—front, back, and chewing surface. Avoid scrubbing aggressively or using a hard-bristled brush, as this can wear down enamel and irritate your gums over time.

Also, don’t forget to replace your toothbrush every 3–4 months or sooner if the bristles look frayed.

2. Floss at Least Once a Day

Brushing cleans the surface of your teeth, but flossing tackles the tight spaces in between, where food particles and plaque love to hide. That’s why the American Dental Association recommends flossing once a day. It helps prevent cavities, reduces gum inflammation, and supports your overall oral health.

      To floss effectively, gently slide the floss between your teeth, curve it around each tooth in a “C” shape, and move it up and down — never snap it, as that can irritate your gums. Whether you prefer traditional string floss, dental picks, or a water flosser, the most important thing is making it a daily habit.

3. See Your Dentist Regularly

Staying on top of routine dental visits is one of the smartest ways to prevent issues before they become painful or expensive. Most dental professionals agree that visiting your dentist every six months strikes the right balance for maintaining healthy teeth and gums.

At Monmouth Dental Arts, your routine checkups include:

  • Thorough removal of tartar and plaque buildup
  • Screenings for gum disease, tooth decay, and oral cancer
  • Personalized tips to fine-tune your at-home hygiene habits

Depending on your unique needs—especially if you smoke, have diabetes, or a history of gum disease—Dr. Adly may recommend more frequent visits to keep everything on track.

4. Avoid Smoking or Vaping

Tobacco—whether smoked or vaped—can seriously damage your smile. It stains your teeth, weakens your gums, slows healing after dental procedures, and significantly increases your risk of gum disease and oral cancer.

Health experts, including leading dental and public health organizations, consistently point to tobacco use as a major factor in periodontal disease and tooth loss. If quitting feels overwhelming, your dentist or physician can help you explore options for support, from medications to counseling.

5. Use Mouthwash Wisely

Mouthwash can be a great addition to your oral hygiene routine—but it’s not a substitute for brushing and flossing. Some mouthwashes contain antibacterial ingredients, such as chlorhexidine or essential oils, that can help reduce plaque and gingivitis.

The ADA recommends choosing an alcohol-free, ADA Seal-approved mouthwash that suits your needs—whether it’s for fresh breath, gum health, or sensitivity. Dr. Adly is happy to recommend the best one for your smile during your next visit.

6. Limit Sugary and Starchy Foods

Sugar feeds the harmful bacteria in your mouth, which then produce acid that wears down your enamel. But it’s not just candy—sugary drinks and refined starches like chips, crackers, and bread can also contribute to tooth decay.

According to the World Health Organization and the ADA, reducing added sugar to under 10% of your daily calories can significantly lower your risk of cavities. Better yet, aim for 5% or less. Choose whole, fiber-rich fruits and vegetables, and enjoy dairy products without added sugar to strengthen your teeth naturally.

7. Drink Plenty of Water

Consuming sugar can lead to cavities. Studies continue to highlight the significant role that sugar plays in adverse dental health outcomes. Common culprits include candy and desserts, but many processed foods also contain added sugar.

The WHO recommends that people limit their intake of sugar to below 10 percent of their daily calories. The authors of a systematic review concluded that lowering this to 5 percent would further reduce the risk of cavities and other dental problems.

Experts have also stated that starchy foods, such as crackers, bread, chips, and pasta, can cause tooth decay. The ADA explains that these foods linger in the mouth and break down into simple sugars, on which acid-producing bacteria feed. This acid can cause tooth decay.

Instead of starchy foods, the ADA recommends eating plenty of fiber-rich fruits and vegetables as well as dairy products without added sugar.

8. Choose Water Over Sugary Drinks

When it comes to beverages, water remains the gold standard for supporting oral health — and here’s why:

  • Rinses Away Debris: Water helps flush out food particles that would otherwise sit on teeth and feed bacteria.
  • Balances Oral pH: It dilutes and neutralizes acids produced by bacteria or found in acidic foods and drinks, helping to protect enamel from erosion.
  • Fights Dry Mouth: Staying hydrated supports healthy saliva production, which plays a crucial role in washing away bacteria and maintaining the mouth’s natural defenses.
  • Zero Sugar, Zero Risk: Unlike sugary drinks, water doesn’t contribute to decay or fuel harmful bacteria.
  • Helps Post-Meal Cleanup: A quick rinse with water after meals — especially acidic or sweet ones — can reduce the impact of those substances on tooth surfaces.

On the flip side, frequent sipping of sodas, fruit juices, energy drinks, and even flavored waters can bathe teeth in sugars and acids throughout the day. If patients choose these drinks, we recommend they enjoy them with meals and follow up with a rinse of plain water to help minimize damage.

Unlock your best smile!

A clean, confident smile begins with simple, consistent habits—like brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and keeping up with regular dental checkups. These small steps make a big impact over time.

At Monmouth Dental Arts in Oakhurst, we combine high-level expertise with genuine care. Dr. Adly, a proud Fellow of the Academy of General Dentistry (FAGD), leads our team with a focus on comfort, precision, and results that last.

Whether you’re new in town or simply looking for a more attentive dental experience, we’re here for you—and your smile.

📞 Call (732) 686-6337 to book your visit, or find more tips and behind-the-scenes moments on Instagram: @monmouth_dental_arts

Reference: [https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/324708#tips-for-kids]