FOR YOUR HEALTH: What can adults do to maintain good oral health?

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

Drink fluoridated water and brush with fluoride toothpaste.

Practice good oral hygiene. Brush teeth thoroughly twice a day and floss daily between the teeth to remove dental plaque.

Visit your dentist at least once a year, even if you have no natural teeth or have dentures.

Do not use any tobacco products. If you smoke, quit.

Limit alcoholic drinks.

If you have diabetes, work to maintain control of the disease. This will decrease risk for other complications, including gum disease. Treating gum disease may help lower your blood sugar level.

If your medication causes 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 sugarless gum, and avoid tobacco products and alcohol.

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

When acting as a caregiver, help older individuals brush and floss their teeth if they are not able to perform these activities independently.

How to Clean Your Teeth and Gums

There is a right way to brush and floss your teeth.

Gently brush your teeth on all sides with a soft-bristle brush and fluoride toothpaste. Replace your toothbrush every three to four months.

Use small circular motions and short back-and-forth strokes.

Brush carefully and gently along your gum line.

Lightly brush your tongue or use a tongue scraper to help keep your mouth clean.

Clean between your teeth with dental floss, prethreaded flossers, a water flosser, or a similar product. This removes plaque and leftover food that a toothbrush can’t reach.

Rinse after you floss.

People with arthritis or other conditions that limit hand motion may find it hard to hold and use a toothbrush. Some helpful tips are:

Use an electric or battery-operated toothbrush.

Buy a toothbrush with a larger handle.

Attach the toothbrush handle to your hand with a wide elastic band.

See your dentist if brushing or flossing causes your gums to bleed or hurts your mouth. If you have trouble flossing, a floss holder may help. Ask your dentist to show you the right way to floss.