Caring for Your Teeth and Mouth

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Healthy teeth and mouth are about more than just a nice smile, it is about your overall health. Maintaining good oral health should be a priority throughout a lifetime. Learn more about oral health throughout your life by consulting the following resources:

• Brushing and Flossing
• Children
• Seniors

Developing an Oral Health Plan

So what are the most important things you can do to maintain good oral health, to reduce your risk of developing periodontal disease, and to reduce your risk of developing many of the other diseases?

1. Remove plaque by brushing your teeth for about two minutes at least twice a day and by flossing daily to remove plaque between your teeth.
2. To promote healthy tooth development in children and to strengthen your teeth, use water, toothpaste or rinses containing fluoride.
3. Check your teeth, gums and mouth regularly. If you notice any problems with your mouth or teeth, plan to see a dental professional as soon as you can.
4. Don't smoke or chew tobacco.
5. Stay active and make healthy food choices according to Canada's Food Guide.
6. If you have diabetes, heart or respiratory disease, or if you're pregnant, plan to speak to a dental or other health care provider to help design an oral health plan that's right for you.
7. See a dental professional on a regular basis.

Know Your Mouth

Check your gums and teeth on a regular basis. Look for signs of gum disease that include:

If you have any of these symptoms, see a dental professional.