Your teeth will last a lifetime if you care for them properly. Regular brushing, flossing, and visits to a dentist will help keep your teeth healthy. Choose a dentist as carefully as you choose any other doctor; what is his/her training and certification, what is availability, and will s/he work together with you. If you have dental insurance you should check to see if your chosen dentist is part of the plan and how the practice bills.

Tooth decay and gum disease are the result of bacterial plaque. Bacteria are always present in the mouth and when they are not removed by brushing and flossing, bacteria stick to the teeth and multiply into larger and larger colonies called plaque. Plaque forms as a sticky, colorless film on your teeth. The sticky plaque damages teeth in two ways:

	Food particles, especially refined sugars, stick to the plaque and the plaque uses that food to grow more bacteria and to produce acid.
	Plaque holds the acid against the tooth surface and will eventually eat through the tooth enamel, causing decay.

It takes about 24 hours for bacteria and acid to harm you teeth. This is enough time for you to brush the plaque off and wash away the acid. If you eat a lot of snacks between meals, plaque builds up faster and you will need to brush more often.

Periodontal (gum) disease is an inflammation of the gums and in the bone supporting the teeth. It is a major cause of tooth loss and is caused by bacterial plaque the builds up and sticks to the teeth. Gingivitis is the first stage of the disease and is marked by swollen, bleeding gums and bad breath. (Unfortunately this stage is painless and therefore people may not seek treatment.)

As the disease progresses, the supporting bones and ligaments are affected. The gums recede, creating gaps between the teeth, which eventually fall out. An estimated 75-80 % of Americans have some form of gum disease. People with diabetes and those who smoke or chew tobacco are especially at increased risk of gum disease. Occasional bleeding when you brush or floss is an early sign of gum disease.

Prevention:

	Have your teeth checked and cleaned at least twice a year.
	Eat crunchy foods that naturally clean the teeth (apples, carrots, other raw vegetables), and foods with ample vitamin C (citrus fruits and broccoli).

Utilized information from the Healthwise Handbook