TAKE CARE OF YOUR TEETH!

-Be sure your toothbrush has soft bristles (the package will tell you if they're soft). Remember that you'll need a new toothbrush every 3 months. Some toothbrushes come with bristles that change color when it's time to replace them. Don't worry about those whiz-bang toothbrushes -- cheap works just fine, as long as the bristles are soft.
-Buy toothpaste that contains fluoride, which makes your teeth strong and protects them from cavities.
-Understand that when you brush, you don't need a lot of toothpaste; just squeeze out a bit the size of a pea.
-Brush at least twice a day: in the morning, after breakfast, you will tend to be in a hurry, so do a THOROUGH job in the evening, taking the time to use floss and interdental brushes for those important between-the-teeth areas. This comprehensive cleaning has to be done at least once in a 24 hour period to prevent future problems with gum disease. It is best to do this before you go to bed because your mouth does not have the same salivary protection when you are sleeping as it does during the day.
-If you can, brush after lunch. Brushing during the day will reduce the damage caused by plaque byproducts and toxins.
-Brush all of your teeth, and ALL SIDES of your teeth - - not just the front ones that show when you smile! Spend extra time on the back teeth along the gum line holding the bristles at a 45 degree angle pointing toward the gums.
-Find a fluoride mouthwash. A fluoride mouthwash is an excellent idea as it further helps to strengthen tooth enamel. Teach children between the age of 6 and 12 good rinsing skills to prevent swallowing. Rinse with the rinse once a day after brushing and do not eat or drink for 30 minutes
-Use a tongue scraper! A tongue scraper is an important part of oral hygiene that will also work wonders with stale, smelly breath. Use it to remove the plaque on your tongue, which will freshen breath and presumably slow down the accumulation of plaque on your teeth. You should also use your toothbrush to clean your tongue - then follow with the scraper.
-Use mouth wash. Follow directions on bottle.

xoxo RitzyNina