by Bridget Galbreath

Created on: May 08, 2008   Last Updated: June 29, 2009

It seems that everyone wants to attain a brilliantly white smile. There are commercials that advertise ways to get a super white smile; toothpastes and other products promise a smile so white that sunglasses will be required when looking at the users smile. Yes, having a pretty, white smile is a great asset, but you should be concerned with more than just the appearance of our pearly whites; a pretty smile does not always mean a healthy smile. Here, some tips on maintaining a glistening smile, as well as overall good oral health.

Good oral hygiene is one of the most important things that we can do for our bodies, and it's really pretty simple. The first step to good oral hygiene is flossing, which should be done at least once a day. This should be done before brushing, as it ensures any large debris are removed, allowing the toothbrush to have better contact with the teeth. To do this, select the floss and use a strand about 18" long. Wrap the strand around your forefingers. Insert the floss between the each tooth and move back and forth, using the thumbs to remove the floss.
The next step is brushing. This should be done at least 2 times a day and for a span of at least 2 minutes. Brush all surfaces in a circular motion, and don't forget the tongue! Doing so will not only improve your oral health, but it will make your mouth feel great as you brush away all that bad breath and tooth decaying bacteria.
You should also include rinsing with mouthwash as part of your dental care routine. Again, there are a variety of flavors out there to suite your palate. Once you have found one you like, swish a cap-full around your mouth and spit. This step will help to kill off any germs that have hung on during the flossing and brushing phase of this very important routine.
Of course, maintaining a good dental health routine should be an important part of your daily life. However, even the most avid tooth cleaner must visit their dentist for a check up and regular cleaning at least once a year, although every six months is highly recommended. Find a health care professional that you are comfortable with, as he or she will become an important health care professional in your life. Upon your dental visits, you can expect that your teeth will be thoroughly examined for decay (cavities), as well as other oral issues. If a cavity is found, your dentist will find the most comfortable way possible to treat the problem. Additionally, preventative measures will be taken to help you avoid oral issues. Your dentist will undoubtedly clean your teeth and use some sort of fluoride treatment, which helps strengthen the tooth enamel.
Making regular trips to the dentist coupled with following the oral tips listed above, can help you ensure your oral health remains in good health. Doing all of this will help you attain and maintain a brighter, whiter smile.

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