Also, when taking X-rays, the dental staff should provide a lead shield to protect your body. Preventive techniques, such as topical fluoride applications and pit and fissure sealants, have reduced many dental problems. But such measures cannot save your teeth and reduce dental costs unless you share the responsibility for your own oral health. Using a fluoride mouth rinse and toothpaste or gel accepted by the ADA's Council on Dental Therapeutics helps make teeth more resistant to decay. Eating nutritious meals and limiting the number of sugary snacks you eat between brushings is also an important part of a sound oral health routine as is drinking plenty of water.
Water keeps saliva flowing, which dilutes the toxins created by plaque.
It takes more than a quick once-over with the toothbrush to remove plaque from your teeth. But the time you spend brushing and flossing will help preserve your pearly whites. It's ideal to brush and floss twice a day at bedtime and after breakfast. Then select a fluoride-containing toothpaste approved by the American Dental Association. Now you're ready to begin.