A good oral hygiene routine practiced for a few minutes twice a day can help reduce your risk of developing periodontal diseases and tooth decay. When choosing dental care products, look for those that display the American Dental Association’s Seal of Acceptance. The seal of Acceptance is your assurance the product meets the ADA’s criteria for safety and effectiveness for its intended use.

* Brush your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste. With thorough brushing, you can remove plaque from the inner, outer and chewing surfaces of each tooth. Your dentist or dental hygienist can show you a proper brushing technique.

* Clean between teeth once a day with dental floss or another interdentally cleaner to remove plaque and debris from areas your toothbrush can’t reach.

* If you need extra help controlling gingivitis and plaque that forms above the gum line, your dentist may recommend using an ADA-accepted antimicrobial mouthrinse or other oral hygiene aids as an effective addition to your daily oral hygiene routine.

* Eat a balanced diet for good general health and limit snacks.

* Visit your dentist regularly. Professional cleanings are the only way to remove tartar, which traps bacteria along the gum line.