Your teeth have to last you a lifetime. A few simple habits can help you keep them healthy and your smile bright.
Use fluoride toothpaste
Fluoride strengthens enamel and helps protect against decay. Use a pea-sized amount for adults and a smear for young children, and spit rather than rinse so that the fluoride stays on the teeth.
Cut down on sugary snacks and drinks
Frequent sugar is the biggest dietary threat to your teeth. Choose water as your main drink and keep sweets to mealtimes.
Do not use your teeth as tools
Opening bottles, cracking hard objects or tearing packets with your teeth can chip or crack them.
Avoid tobacco
Smoking and other forms of tobacco stain the teeth, harm your gums and raise the risk of serious mouth conditions.
Act early on problems
If you notice pain, bleeding gums, a chipped tooth or a sore that does not heal, do not wait. Early treatment is usually simpler.
Visit your dentist regularly
Regular check-ups and professional cleaning keep small problems from becoming big ones.
This article is general information, not a diagnosis. If you have pain or a concern about your teeth, please see a dentist.
Frequently asked questions
Should children see the dentist too?
Yes. Early visits help children get used to the dentist and let problems be caught early.
What should I do if a tooth is knocked out?
Hold it by the crown, not the root, keep it moist and see a dentist immediately.
