Small habits that can prevent big problems.

What can adults do to maintain good oral health?

You can keep your teeth for a lifetime. Here are some things you can do to maintain a healthy mouth and strong teeth.

Brush your teeth regularly.

Brushing your teeth every day is very important. Not brushing your teeth can lead to a number of dental health problems such as tooth decay, gingivitis, plaque/tartar build-up and even tooth loss. Brush your teeth twice a day for maximum effectiveness and use fluoride toothpaste.

Use dental floss.

Floss your teeth before brushing. This can remove particles that a toothbrush can’t reach.

Regular visits to the dentist. During a regular dental visit, your dentist will clean your teeth, administer fluoride treatment, take x-rays and talk with you about your current dental health. It is recommended that you visit your dentist at least twice a year to maintain good oral health.

Choose the right mouthwash.

Use a familiar mouthwash after each brushing. This can further clean and strengthen the teeth. Be sure to choose an anti-cavity and anti-plaque option!

Be gentle with your teeth.

Avoid using your teeth for anything other than chewing food. If you use them to crack nuts, remove bottle tops or tear packaging, you risk chipping or even breaking your teeth.

Limit acidic drinks.

Soft drinks, alcoholic beverages and fruit juices contain food acids that soften tooth material and dissolve minerals in tooth enamel, causing holes (cavities or cavities).

Use sugar-free gum.

Chew sugar-free gum in between brushing after meals. This may help
in removing plaque and is beneficial for your oral health.

Do not use tobacco products.

Treatment of diabetes. If you have diabetes, work to keep the disease under control. This will reduce the risk to others
complications, including gum disease. Treating gingivitis can help lower your blood sugar.

Watch out for dry mouth.

If any of your medications are causing your dry mouth, ask your doctor for a different medication that may not cause this condition. If dry mouth cannot be avoided, drink plenty of water, chew sugar-free gum, and avoid tobacco products and alcohol.

Taste and smell.

See your doctor or dentist if you have sudden changes in taste and smell.

Take care of others too.

When acting as a caregiver, help children and the elderly brush and wash
floss their teeth if they are unable to perform these activities independently.