Prevention

Most people can avoid severe dental problems with regular dental care. Have your dentist's telephone number easily available in case of an emergency.

• Maintain a healthy diet. Bacteria thrive on refined sugar and starch and need this in order to burrow through the enamel on your teeth. Watch what you eat and be careful about food that sticks to and between your teeth. Brush your teeth after eating or add foods in your diet with some roughage that may act as a natural toothbrush. End your meal with a salad or apple.

• Establish a good program of cleaning your teeth to remove the food particles. Brush your teeth after eating. Use a soft toothbrush with fluoride toothpaste as recommended by the American Dental Association. Floss between teeth daily and brush your gums to encourage healthy gums. Water jets are effective at removing trapped particles, but flossing your teeth does a more thorough job when done carefully.

• Prevent tooth decay with fluoride. Fluoride is effective in preventing tooth decay in children. Fluoride is a natural element and is found in many water supplies and vegetables. Check and see if your tap water is fluoridated. If your water is not fluoridated, your dentist can prescribe fluoride tablets or fluoride supplements for children younger than 10 years.

• Arrange to have your teeth cleaned by a dentist or dental hygienist twice a year. This has been shown to be effective in preventing both decay and gum disease. Dental x-rays may be needed every 3-5 years to identify problem areas.

• Keep your bridge or dentures clean. Your dentist can offer suggestions. Even if you do not have all of your original adult teeth, you can prevent new dental problems if you try these preventive tips.

• Wear a protective dental guard or headgear while playing sports to help prevent injury.

• Do not smoke. Tobacco smoking may make some dental conditions worse.

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