Visiting the dentist isn’t a favorite thing to do for most people, but the dedicated family dental care experts at Lisa Valderueda, D.M.D. Inc. in Waipahu, HI, say a little effort each day will make dental appointments a breeze. Maintaining a healthy smile is quick and painless when you have good oral health habits at home.

If you’re looking to keep your teeth strong and bright, here are a few tips:

• Brush The Right Way: Most people don’t brush long enough. Experts in dental care suggest you brush at least twice a day, spending at least three minutes on each session. Set a timer to ensure you brush long enough. For kids, play a favorite song of the appropriate length to keep them going.

• Floss: There’s a reason dentists constantly remind patients of the importance of flossing daily — it’s essential for healthy teeth and gums. Brushing cleans only some surfaces of your teeth and does little to remove bits of food and other contaminants lodged between them. Floss at least once a day to prevent tooth decay and gum inflammation or infection.

• Choose The Right Products: It’s important to use quality products when brushing and flossing. Dentists recommend choosing floss, toothpaste, and toothbrushes that are certified by the American Dental Association and display the ADA seal on their packaging. Make sure you use a new toothbrush every three months, as older brushes are less effective. Replace your brush earlier if its bristles are frayed.

With the right habits at home and appointments with dedicated dental care experts like the team at Lisa Valderueda, D.M.D. Inc., your smile will be brighter and healthier. Learn more about the services provided by this family dentist online, and call (808) 676-5711 to schedule an appointment.