What you can do to maintain good oral health

• Drink fluoridated water and use fluoride tooth paste. Fluoride helps protect against tooth decay.
  
• Take care of your teeth and gums. Thorough brushing and flossing reduces build up and can help prevent gum disease.
  
• Don’t smoke. Tobacco increases your risk for gum disease, oral and throat cancers, and oral infections.
  
• Limit alcohol. Heavy drinking is a risk factor for oral and throat cancers.
  
• Eat wisely. Don’t eat a lot of sugar and starch.
  
• Visit the dentist. Checkups can detect early signs of oral health problems.
  
  

Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (www.cdc.gov/OralHealth/factsheets/adult.htm)