Oral care does not have to be mundane.

Once dominated by consumer conglomerate brands, start-up brands have emerged in the last couple of years with products that are changing the game in oral care. From ayurvedic oil pulling to next-gen tongue serum, these aesthetically pleasing packaging and innovative solutions make your oral care routine less of a chore and more of a self-care routine that you can look forward to.

Here, we ask Zieda Sharipova, Creative Director and Partner at Zieda Clinic & Beauty Lounge, how oral health can impact our overall well-being, Zieda Clinic’s holistic and patient-centric approach to dental care, what to look for when investing in teeth whitening, and the most effective way to achieve your pearly whites.

Why is oral health important?

Oral care is essential not just for a beautiful smile, but for your overall health and quality of life. Neglecting oral care can lead to serious dental and systemic issues. Proper oral hygiene prevents tooth decay, gum disease, and bad breath; preserves natural teeth and function; helps detect health issues early (many conditions show signs in the mouth first); boosts self-confidence and contributes to personal and professional presentation.

How does it impact our overall health and well-being?

Poor oral health has been linked to several systemic conditions:

• Cardiovascular Disease: Bacteria from gum infections can enter the bloodstream, increasing the risk of heart disease and stroke.

• Diabetes: Gum disease can make it harder to control blood sugar levels.

• Respiratory Infections: Inhaling bacteria from infected gums and teeth can lead to lung infections.

• Pregnancy Complications: Gum disease is associated with preterm birth and low birth weight.

• Mental Health and Confidence: People with healthy teeth tend to smile more and feel more confident in social settings.

What habits should we incorporate, or what key step shouldn’t we miss in our oral care routine?

• Brush twice daily using fluoride toothpaste for at least 2 minutes.
• Floss daily to remove plaque and food between teeth.
• Use mouthwash (alcohol-free) to reduce bacteria.
• Replace your toothbrush every 3-4 months.
• Limit sugar and acidic foods/drinks, which feed bacteria and erode enamel.
• Stay hydrated to promote saliva flow, which naturally cleanses the mouth.
• Wear a night guard if you grind your teeth.
• Flossing is the most commonly skipped but critical step in preventing gum disease and decay between teeth.

How often should we be booking dentist appointments?

Every 6 months is standard for most people. More frequent visits may be needed if you have gum disease, a history of cavities, orthodontics (braces or aligners), Diabetes, or other chronic health conditions. Regular visits allow early detection of issues and personalised advice based on your oral condition.

What are the benefits of in-chair whitening vs. over-the-counter products?

In-chair whitening offers immediate results with 4-5 shades lighter in one visit. Supervised by professionals, it delivers a higher concentration of whitening agents that can be tailored to your teeth and sensitivity. Meanwhile, over-the-counter products are more affordable and often come in one-size-fits-all trays of strips. With a lower concentration, the speed is gradual and could take 2-4 weeks or longer, with risk of misuse, uneven application, or irritation.

How different is the dental approach at Zieda’s, and what sets it apart from the rest?

Zieda’s Dental Clinic focuses on personalised, patient-first care rather than quick, volume-driven services. Attention to whole-body wellness, integrating oral health into broader health and aesthetic goals, is reviewed through extended consultations, detailed smile assessments, and state-of-the-art digital previews and simulations such as 3D imaging, intraoral scanners, and laser dentistry to achieve tailored, natural-looking restorations and facial harmony with reduced downtime.

Here, our edit of aesthetic oral care essentials to take your everyday routine to the next level:

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Images: Instagram @haileybieber