Health Tip: Help Improve Your Dental Health

Your food choices matter

Related Encyclopedia • Dental Abscesses • Dental Implants • Dry Mouth • Dysphonia More... Related Animations • Dental Cavities More... Related Healthscout Videos Picture Perfect Smile (Edited) Picture Perfect Smile Picture Perfect Smile Space Age Dental Scan More... Related News Articles • Taming Bad Breath • Dental Plaque Buildup May Raise Heart Risk in Black Men • Doctor Visits Are Getting Short Shrift in Tight Economy • Health Tip: Understanding Gum Disease More...

(HealthDay News) -- Regular brushing, flossing and checkups are important for good dental health, but there's more you can do to keep your teeth and gums healthy.

Text Continues Below

---

The American Dental Association offers these suggestions to help prevent tooth decay and gum disease:

• Stick to a healthy diet with a limited number of snacks. Make low-sugar, nutritious food choices.
• Drink plenty of water.
• Give your teeth a thorough brushing at least twice each day using a fluoride toothpaste.
• Floss each day to get rid of plaque, and stick to a regular schedule of dental cleanings and checkups.
• Record a food diary for a week to track what you eat. Note every piece of candy, gum or drink that contains sugar, and evaluate whether you're getting too much.

-- Diana Kohnle