Health Article

Maintaining Good Oral Health – A Checklist

Drink fluoridated water and use fluoride toothpaste.
Brush and floss regularly to prevent cavities and gingivitis – the mildest form of gum disease.
Avoid tobacco: smokers have 4 times the risk of developing gum disease compared to non-smokers. Any tobacco use increases the risk for gum disease, oral and throat cancers, and oral fungal infection.
Limit alcohol. Heavy use of alcohol is also a risk factor for oral and throat cancers.
Eat wisely. Avoid snacks full of sugars and starches. Limit the number of snacks eaten throughout the day. The recommended five-a-day helping of fiber-rich fruits and vegetables stimulates salivary flow to aid remineralization of tooth surfaces with early stages of tooth decay.
Visit the dentist regularly. Check-ups can detect early signs of oral health problems and can lead to treatments that will prevent further damage, and in some cases, reverse the problem. Professional tooth cleaning is also important for preventing oral problems.
If you have other health issues, such as diabetes or cancer, you are at greater risk for certain oral health problems. Talk to your dentist about how best to manage your oral care.

Source: National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Heath Promotion, www.cdc.gov