DIET

It is important to remember to reduce how often and how much sugar you take in food and drink.

Reduce the number of sugar containing foods and drink you eat during the day to meal times only.

Snacks in between meals should not contain sugar and acidic drinks should be avoided.

TOOTH BRUSHING

Brush teeth twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste.

Tooth brushing is the only effective way to remove plaque from teeth and gums. The removal of plaque is essential to avoid gum disease.

Teeth should be brushed at least twice a day on all surfaces.

The size of toothbrush depends on the size of mouth. The brush should reach all surfaces easily and comfortably to make brushing effective.

Tooth brushing alone is not enough to prevent decay, a fluoride toothpaste should be used.

VISIT THE DENTIST

It is important to visit the dentist for an oral examination at least once a year. This applies to all age groups.

Those at risk from oral disease such as children and those without fluoride in their drinking water should visit the dentist more often. (Ask your dentist for advice on frequency of your visits).

WATER FLUORIDATION

Fluoride in drinking water is a proved and effective way to aid prevention of tooth decay.

If your drinking water supply does not contain fluoride it can be supplemented by using fluoride drops, for small children and mouth rinses for older children and adults. However drops, tablets and rinses should only be used with the advice of your dentist.