Bacteria use acid to dissolve tooth structure as the integral part of the de cay infection. Fluoride is also toxic to many bacteria, including those involved in decay. Topical fluoride via toothpaste and rinses lowers bacterial counts significantly. This double whammy helps fluoride reduce decay to its current historically low levels in fluoridated communities. Always use fluoride toothpaste, and anyone with an increased risk of decay should use rinses.
Fluoride rinses are most effective if used at bedtime.
Do Not Smoke -Smoking is just plain terrible for your mouth. Stain and yellow teeth are the obvious problems, but the hidden damage is far more threatening. Smokers are much more likely to suffer oral cancer than non smokers. Periodontal disease in smokers is more severe, progresses faster, and responds very poorly to treatment. Smokeless tobacco is problematic as well, with a high risk for oral cancer and gum damage.