How are my teeth?

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Make a change for yourself…make a change for the better

For overall body health.
Poor oral health may put you at risk for chronic diseases such as diabetes, cancer, heart disease and lung disease.
To prevent tooth decay and gum disease.
To keep your smile attractive and your breath fresh.

Fluoride prevents tooth decay and can heal a beginning cavity.
Brush with fluoride toothpaste twice a day, after breakfast and before bed.
Drink water with fluoride at recommended levels to prevent tooth decay.
Floss daily, especially at night.
Don’t smoke or chew tobacco.
If you drink alcohol, do so only in moderation.
Avoid alcohol tobacco use. It puts you at risk for oral cancer.
Be careful, tongue and lip piercings may damage teeth and cause serious infection.
Visit the dentist at least once a year for a checkup.
Eat a healthy diet

Frequent between-meal snacking increases the risk for tooth decay.
If you must drink soda or sports drinks (including diet soda) drink it with a meal.
Rinse your mouth with water soon after drinking sweetened or soft drinks.
Limit foods like starches and sugars (including sticky fruit snacks, cookies, crackers, and chips) to mealtimes only.
High protein snacks like cheese and nuts are safe for teeth.

Wear a helmet while bike riding, snowboarding, skiing or riding a scooter.
Wear a mouth guard if you play contact sports like baseball, basketball or soccer.
Use lip balm with sunscreen.

Unless otherwise noted, all materials and forms on this page are in PDF format.

Links to external resources are provided as a public service and do not imply endorsement by the Washington State Department of Health.