Tips for Your Smile

1) First and foremost: Brush them! Twice a day and after meals is best, for at least 3 minutes. Brush each tooth and the gums using a gentle scrubbing, elliptical motion, not force. Think of your toothbrush as a tooth and gum cleaner.

2) Use a quality toothbrush. Ask your dentist what he or she recommends for you specifically. The Academy of General Dentistry recommends a toothbrush with soft bristles, a small head and a long handle. Many dentists may recommend electric tooth brushes. These brushes are more effective at removing plaque and cleaning the gums, and often times come with timers so you know how long you've been brushing.

3) Floss! If you struggle with this, buy floss picks, the throw-a-way type which can make reaching your back teeth much easier. If you floss with string, use plenty. The recommendation is around 18 inches of floss to clean all 32 teeth. Be sure to use a clean section of floss for each tooth. Flossing is the best way to remove plaque from between the teeth, where your toothbrush can't reach. Flossing can also help prevent the gum disease gingivitis which can cause inflammation, bleeding and pain of the gums.

At Dr. Luis Kaver's practice, patients can receive a variety of treatments in a supportive, comfortable environment. Some of the individuals Dr. Kaver treats include porcelain veneers, teeth whitening, dental bridges and dental crowns Costa Rica patients. In addition, he has helped many patients seeking dental implants in Costa Rica restore healthy, attractive smiles.