Department of Health
John J. Dreyzehner, MD, MPH, Commissioner

Plaque is an invisible, sticky film of bacteria or germs that live on your teeth. These bacteria love sugars and starches found in many foods. If you don't clean your teeth after eating, plaque bacteria can use the sugar and starch to produce acids that destroy the hard surface of the tooth called enamel. Over time, tooth decay develops.

Tooth decay is a preventable disease!

BRUSHING
Proper tooth brushing helps to remove the plaque from the outside, inside, and chewing surfaces of your teeth. Brush your teeth at least twice a day with a soft-bristle brush that is not worn out or frayed. A pea-size amount (or less) of fluoride toothpaste should be used when brushing. Angle the bristles toward the gum line and brush gently in small circular motions. Brush your tongue to remove bacteria and freshen breath.

FLOSSING
Daily flossing is an essential part of the tooth cleaning process. Flossing removes plaque from between teeth and at the gum line where gum disease often begins. To floss properly, wrap an 18-inch piece of floss around the middle finger of one hand. Wind the remaining floss around the same finger of the opposite hand. Gently slide the floss between the teeth in order to floss each side of every tooth. Use a clean section of floss for each tooth. Initially, flossing may seem awkward or difficult. Gums may bleed slightly at first, but they should become healthier with daily flossing. If bleeding continues longer than two weeks, consult your dentist or dental hygienist.

NUTRITION Your entire body, including your teeth, needs a proper diet for good growth and nutrition. Not only what you eat, but also when you eat, affects your oral health. Your risk of tooth decay increases especially when you eat sweets and starchy snacks between meals.
 

FLUORIDE
Fluoride is a mineral your body needs to grow strong healthy teeth and bones. It protects your teeth against decay, especially the smooth sides. Fluoride is found in most community drinking water systems, certain brands of toothpaste and mouth rinses, some foods, and can be administered by dental professionals.
 

SEALANTS
A sealant is a safe, plastic material that is painlessly applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth - molars and premolars. Most tooth decay begins on these chewing surfaces because they have many small grooves called pits and fissures where germs and food can hide. Even toothbrush bristles cannot reach into the depths of these grooves. The sealant acts as a barrier to protect these chewing surfaces.

PROFESSIONAL CARE
Regular dental check-ups play an essential role in maintaining good oral health. These visits are designed to help prevent problems from occurring and catch those that do while they are easier to treat.