Californians have a reputation for being particularly beautiful. While this may or may not be true, many of those living in Irvine take great pride in their smiles. You need only to look at the bright smiles in shops and walking along the streets to see evidence of it. Those sparkling smiles begin with good oral hygiene and clean teeth. To achieve a great smile, all you have to do is follow a few simple steps and practice them every day.

Brush your teeth twice each day and take the time to do a good job. Your toothbrush should have soft bristles and fit comfortably in your mouth. Electric toothbrushes can do a better job of reducing plaque and gingivitis. They can also be easier for those with arthritis to use. Aim the bristles at an angle toward your gums, brushing back and forth gently. Also brush the sides and roof of your mouth, as well as your tongue.

Use about 18 inches of floss to clean between your teeth. Wind the majority around each of your middle fingers, holding the length left between your thumbs and forefingers. Slip the floss between each pair of teeth until it touches the gum line. Curve the floss toward your tooth and rub the tooth in an upward motion, scraping loose any debris caught there. Unwind fresh floss as you move through the rest of your teeth.

While hygiene is important, there are times when your Irvine cosmetic dentist may be required to treat some conditions. Crooked or missing teeth, cracks in the tooth, or discoloration are things only your Irvine cosmetic dentist can correct. The rest is up to you.