




| Copyright 2008, New York State Dental Foundation. All Rights Reserved. |

| Here are ten tips for oral health that take oral health care beyond brushing and flossing. 1. Drink tap. By drinking solely bottled water, you could be missing out on the decay preventing benefits of fluoride. 2. Don't curb carbs. Low-carb diets can cause bad breath. 3. Ace Arthritis. If you have arthritis, try inserting your toothbrush into a tennis ball to making brushing easier. 4. Give a Massage. Be sure to care for your child's teeth from birth. You can begin such by wiping a baby's gums with a washcloth, or using one of an array of gum cleaning gels available at the pharmacy. 5. Put it Out. Smoking can cause gum disease, even without any signs of bleeding. 6. Choose Water. Soft drinks, such as soda increase the rate of harmful acids attacking your tooth enamel. 7. Know the Effects. Be sure to inquire as to the side effects certain medications might have on your oral health. 8. Eat Well. A dental-healthy diet can help reduce tooth decay. 9. Out with the Old. Be sure to replace your toothbrush after every illness to avoid bacteria and germs. 10. Practice Good Oral Health during Pregnancy. Be sure to practice good oral health habits throughout pregnancy as they also will help the oral health of your baby. |

