The 7 Oral Care Habits of Highly Effective People (Probably)

Aug 18, 2025

We’ve all heard about the famous seven habits of highly effective people, but have you ever wondered about their secret dental routines? Probably not, but since we spend our days thinking about teeth (someone has to), we thought we’d share our take on the oral care secrets behind great smiles and successful lives.

Habit 1: Be proactive (about your toothbrush)

Highly successful people don’t wait for their toothbrush to resemble a hedge trimmer. They replace it regularly, ideally every three months, or sooner if the bristles start flaring like a 90s boyband haircut. If your brush head looks like Einstein’s hair, it’s time for a new one.

Habit 2: Begin with flossing in mind

Successful people don’t skip flossing just because it’s fiddly or a bit dull. They treat it like a non-negotiable meeting in their diary. Flossing daily keeps plaque at bay and gums in good nick. You don’t have to enjoy it, you just have to do it. Like emptying the dishwasher.

Habit 3: Put first things first, like brushing before breakfast

Yes, brushing before breakfast is better. It protects your teeth from acids in your morning brew and that splash of orange juice. It also means you’re less likely to walk into meetings with Weetabix breath. The science says brush first, successful people love science.

Habit 4: Think win-win – smiling boosts everyone’s mood

Highly effective people know that a smile can shift the mood of a whole room. Whether it’s with clients, colleagues, or the barista who always spells your name wrong, smiles matter. Using a gentle whitening mouthwash or toothpaste helps keep that smile bright, without blinding anyone.

Habit 5: Seek first to understand – then to be understood (by your dentist)

Successful people don’t ghost their dentist. They turn up, ask good questions, and actually listen to the answers. They also nod politely at the jokes, even the one about ‘only flossing the teeth you want to keep’. Yes, we’ve heard it too. Yes, it’s still sort of funny.

Habit 6: Synergise your oral care

Nothing says ‘sorted’ like a solid oral care routine. Brush, floss, rinse, repeat. Everything working together in harmony. A well-designed, fluoride-friendly system like Waken’s makes oral care feel easy, calm, and a bit more grown up (even if you still hum while brushing).

Habit 7: Sharpen your smile regularly (not literally)

Successful people don’t just ‘wing it’ at the dentist. They book check-ups, stay on top of their routine, and keep an eye out for the best products. They’re not grinding down their molars into vampire points, but they do keep their smile looking sharp, healthy, and ready for anything.

Your own pathway to success (or at least excellent teeth)

Adopting these seven habits won’t make you a millionaire overnight, but your mouth will feel like a million quid. And since we believe every smile deserves to feel successful, why not start today?

Don’t just clean. Care.