Follow these tips to keep your teeth and gums healthy:

Brush your teeth twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste.
Clean between teeth regularly, aiming for once a day. Use dental floss or a special brush or wooden or plastic pick recommended by a dental professional. Or try a floss holder, floss threader, or water flosser.
Visit the dentist for routine check-ups and professional cleaning.
- If you are at a high risk for tooth decay (for example, if you have a dry mouth because of medicines you take), your dentist or dental hygienist may give you a fluoride treatment, such as a varnish or foam during the office visit. Or, the dentist may recommend a fluoride gel or mouth rinse for home use.
- If you are at higher risk for gum disease because of a medical condition (for example, diabetes), your dentist may want to see you more frequently