CarolinasDentist Blog

Reset Your Bathroom This Year for a Great Smile

graphic talking about safe toothbrush storage

The new year is the perfect time to rethink your routines—including how you care for your teeth. Your bathroom might not seem like the key to better oral health, but small changes can make a big difference. A healthier, brighter smile starts with the tools and habits you build into your daily life.

Here’s how you can reset your bathroom for the new year and set yourself up for better oral health.

    1. Upgrade Your Toothbrush

    Your toothbrush is your smile’s first line of defense. Is it time for an upgrade? Dentists recommend replacing your toothbrush every three to four months or sooner if the bristles are frayed. Consider switching to an electric toothbrush, like Sonicare or Oral-B, for a deeper clean. Electric brushes remove more plaque and often come with timers to ensure you’re brushing long enough.

    2. Store Your Tools Correctly

    How you store your toothbrush matters. Always let it air dry upright in a holder, away from other toothbrushes. Avoid closed containers—they can trap moisture and encourage bacteria growth. It’s also a good idea to store your toothbrush as far away from the toilet as possible. Keep the toilet lid closed when flushing to help reduce bacterial aerosols near your toothbrush.

    3. Stock Up on the Right Toothpaste

    Not all toothpaste is created equal. Look for one with fluoride, which strengthens enamel and fights cavities. If you have specific needs, like sensitive teeth or whitening, choose a toothpaste designed for that purpose.

    4. Floss and Rinse Daily

    No bathroom reset is complete without floss and mouthwash. Keep floss where you can see it as a visual reminder. Mouthwash can freshen breath and kill bacteria, but make sure it complements your oral care routine. Alcohol-free options are gentler on your gums.

    5. Add a Tongue Cleaner

    Your tongue harbors bacteria that can cause bad breath. A tongue scraper or a toothbrush with a built-in tongue cleaner can help keep your mouth fresher.

Visit CarolinasDentist for a Healthier Smile

While at-home care is essential, regular dental visits are key to maintaining oral health. CarolinasDentist, with 13 locations across North Carolina, offers comprehensive preventive care to help you achieve a healthy smile. Whether it’s a cleaning, exam, or tips for better home care, our team is here for you. Reset your bathroom and schedule your next appointment today!

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Image from Authority Dental under CC 2.0

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Andrew Callender

Andrew Callender

Regional Director of Operations

Andrew Callender was born and raised in Denver, Colorado, and serves as one of our Regional Directors of Operations at CarolinasDentist, focusing on our Western NC and Charlotte regions. He joined the leadership team in 2025 and earned his degree from Western Colorado University. Andrew brings over 12 years of experience in dentistry, including more than 10 years of progressive leadership in healthcare operations and three years serving as a Regional Director of Operations. He relocated to North Carolina in 2023 and has quickly made an impact across the region.

Andrew is passionate about delivering outstanding patient care through operational excellence. He is committed to fostering an environment that aligns with CarolinasDentist’s values and culture while leveraging diverse perspectives and experiences to support team success and growth. His leadership style is rooted in collaboration, consistency, and continuous improvement.

Outside of work, Andrew enjoys spending time with his wife and their four children. He’s an avid golfer and also enjoys walking his lab, Harper—making the most of his time outdoors with family and fresh air.

Nate Bunyak

Nate Bunyak

Regional Director of Operations

Nate Bunyak brings a little bit of Pittsburgh grit and a whole lot of energy to everything he does. He is one of the Regional Director of Operations at CarolinasDentist focusing on our Triangle region, joining the team in 2026. Originally from Pittsburgh, PA, Nate graduated from Indiana University of Pennsylvania (IUP) with a degree in Marketing and Management—and has been putting both to work ever since. Three years ago, he traded in steel city winters for North Carolina sunshine—and hasn’t looked back.

When he’s not working, Nate is all about family life with his wife, Melissa, and their three kids—Bryce, Molly, and Connor. Whether cheering on their activities, exploring the outdoors, or simply embracing the joyful chaos of a busy household, he makes the most of every moment with his family.

An avid hiker and nature enthusiast, Nate loves adventures that combine fresh air, beautiful views, and lasting memories. That same adventurous, positive spirit carries into his work—he’s driven, all-in, and always ready to take on what’s next.

Jenna Holland

Jenna Holland

Regional Hygiene Director

Jenna Holland is a Fayetteville native and serves as Regional Hygiene Director, joining the leadership team in 2026. She began her career with CarolinasDentist in June 2016 as a dental hygienist in the Fayetteville office after graduating from Fayetteville Technical Community College. Over the years, she has grown within the organization, building strong relationships with both patients and team members while staying rooted in her passion for patient care.

Jenna is deeply committed to promoting overall well-being through oral health and believes in the powerful connection between a healthy smile and a healthy body. In her leadership role, she especially loves mentoring and coaching hygienists, helping them grow in confidence, strengthen their clinical skills, and develop into exceptional providers. She takes pride in supporting her team and fostering an environment of continuous learning and encouragement.

Her best advice for patients is simple: stay consistent with routine check-ups and cleanings to maintain optimal health. Outside of the office, Jenna enjoys traveling—especially to warm, tropical destinations—and is engaged to her high school sweetheart, adding a personal touch to her passion for caring for others.

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