The Basics of Taking Care of Your Teeth and Gums

The Basics of Oral Care

Healthy habits, including brushing and flossing, can prevent tooth decay (cavities) and gum disease. Tooth decay and gum disease can lead to pain and tooth loss.

Basic daily routine

You can prevent most problems with teeth and gums by taking these steps:

• Brush your teeth 2 times a day with fluoride (“FLOOR-ide”) toothpaste.
• Floss between your teeth every day.
• Visit a dentist regularly for a checkup and cleaning.
• Cut down on sugary foods and drinks.
• Don’t smoke or chew tobacco.
• If you drink alcohol, drink only in moderation.
• What causes tooth decay and gum disease?

Plaque

Plaque (“plak”) is a sticky substance that forms on your teeth. When plaque stays on your teeth too long, it can lead to tooth decay and gum disease. Brushing and flossing help get plaque off your teeth so your mouth can stay healthy.

Taking care of your teeth and gums is especially important if you:

• Have diabetes
• Have cancer
• Are an older adult
• Are pregnant

Take Action!

Follow these tips for a healthy, beautiful smile:

• Brush your teeth.
• Brush your teeth 2 times every day. Use a toothbrush with soft bristles and toothpaste with fluoride. Fluoride is a mineral that helps protect teeth from decay.
• Brush in circles and use short, back-and-forth strokes.
• Take time to brush gently along the gum line.
• Brush your teeth for about 2 minutes each time.
• Don’t forget to brush your tongue.
• Get a new toothbrush every 3 to 4 months. Replace your toothbrush sooner if it’s wearing out.

Floss every day

Floss every day to remove plaque and any food between teeth that your toothbrush missed. Rinse your mouth with water after you floss.

If you aren’t sure how to floss, ask the dentist or oral hygienist to show you at your next visit.

Other health issues

Oral health equals total health. If you have oral health issues then this will lead to a whole host of systemic health issues.  In other words, you cannot be healthy unless you have a healthy mouth. So taking care of your teeth and gums is important for everyone, but especially important if you:

• Have diabetes
• Have cancer
• Are an older adult
• Are pregnant

Get regular checkups

Visit a dentist twice a year for a checkup and cleaning. Get checkups even if you have no natural teeth and have dentures.

If you are prone to staining and plaque build up, you might benefit from get cleaning more often, every three months.

If you have problems with your teeth or mouth, see a dentist right away.