You and your dentist are partners in your oral health care. Your natural teeth are the best teeth you'll ever own, and your dentist will do his or her utmost to make sure that you don't lose any. But you also have to do your part, by brushing, flossing, and seeing your dentist regularly.

It's not age but neglect that causes teeth to deteriorate. Prevention is the most important step you can take to preserve your oral health, so visit your dentist regularly and follow these oral hygiene tips to maintain your healthy smile.

This section is about what you need to do to keep your teeth and gums healthy. It tells you why these steps are important, and shows you how to do them right.