Step 1 Keep your mouth clean Step 2 Visit your dentist regularly Step 3 Make healthy food choices Step 4 Avoid tobacco in any form • Brush your teeth 2 times a day for 2 minutes each time. • Use toothpaste with fluoride, a mineral that can help keep your teeth strong. • Clean between your teeth every day with floss or another between-the-teeth cleaner. This removes food particles and plaque from under your gum line and between your teeth — places that your toothbrush can’t reach. Regular visits to your dentist make it possible for your dentist to treat problems in the early stages. During your oral exam, your dentist will check for: • tooth decay and cavities • gum disease • signs of oral cancer • anything that doesn’t look normal Plus, a professional cleaning helps remove stains, plaque and tartar from your teeth. It also helps prevent gum disease and keeps your smile looking great! For teeth to be healthy, they need vitamins, protein, calcium and phosphorous — and you can get them all from a healthy diet. • Avoid sugary drinks. This includes sodas, sports drinks, energy drinks, and even 100% fruit juices. • Limit your snacking between meals. • If you have sugary foods and drinks, have them with meals. • Chew sugarless gum with the ADA Seal of Acceptance. • Drink water with fluoride. If you use any form of tobacco — including electronic cigarettes and chewing tobacco — you increase your risk for gum disease and tooth loss. Cigarette smoking also increases your risk for oral cancer. Quitting tobacco use is a great step forward for your dental and overall health. Ask your dentist or physician for advice on how to quit. Top 4 Steps to a Healthy Smile