Dental Health
Learn how to keep your teeth and gums healthy
This information is for learning only. See a dentist regularly for professional dental care.
Why is Dental Health Important?
Good dental health means having healthy teeth and gums. Taking care of your mouth helps you eat, speak, and smile with confidence. Poor dental health can lead to pain, infection, and other serious health problems.
How Dental Health Affects Your Body
Your mouth health is connected to your overall health:
- Gum disease can increase risk of heart disease
- Diabetes can make gum problems worse
- Tooth infections can spread to other parts of your body
- Good oral health helps you eat nutritious foods
Daily Dental Care
Brush Your Teeth
Clean your teeth twice a day
- • Brush for 2 minutes, twice a day
- • Use fluoride toothpaste
- • Replace your toothbrush every 3-4 months
- • Brush gently in circular motions
Floss Daily
Clean between your teeth
- • Floss once a day
- • Use about 18 inches of floss
- • Gently slide between teeth
- • Don't snap the floss into your gums
Use Mouthwash
Extra protection for your mouth
- • Use fluoride mouthwash
- • Rinse for 30 seconds
- • Don't eat or drink for 30 minutes after
- • Choose alcohol-free options
Foods for Healthy Teeth
Good for Your Teeth
- • Dairy products (milk, cheese, yogurt)
- • Leafy greens (spinach, kale)
- • Nuts and seeds
- • Fish and lean meats
- • Crunchy fruits and vegetables
- • Water (especially fluoridated water)
Limit These Foods
- • Sugary drinks and sodas
- • Candy and sweets
- • Sticky foods that cling to teeth
- • Acidic foods and drinks
- • Hard candies that can crack teeth
- • Ice (don't chew on it)
When to See a Dentist
Regular Checkups
- • Visit every 6 months for cleaning
- • Get X-rays as recommended
- • Professional fluoride treatments
- • Early detection of problems
See a Dentist Right Away If You Have
- • Tooth pain that doesn't go away
- • Swollen or bleeding gums
- • A broken or knocked-out tooth
- • Persistent bad breath
- • Sores in your mouth that don't heal
- • Loose teeth