Discovering beautiful smiles

        

Your teeth can last a lifetime if you practice basic dental care, which involves brushing and flossing regularly, eating a mouth-healthy diet, and visiting your dentist and/or dental hygienist for regular checkups and cleanings. Developing good dental health habits is the best way to prevent tooth decay and gum disease.

Good brushing and flossing are important parts of your dental care. To do these actions well, make them part of your daily routine and:

• Brush your teeth 2 times a day, in the morning and at night. When you brush, use a fluoride toothpaste approved by the American Dental Association. Some fluoride toothpastes also offer tartar control, which may help slow the formation of hard mineral buildup (tartar) on the teeth.
• Floss at least once a day.

For more information about brushing, flossing, and the care of your teeth, talk to your dentist and dental hygienist.