What is the best way for me to prevent cavities in myself and in my children?

There are some very simple steps that you can take in the prevention of cavities that can save you much pain and money in the long run. Here are a few of the major ones.

• Brush twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste.
• Floss daily when brushing.
• Eat nutritious and balanced meals and limit snacking. Limit the amount of sugars you and your children eat.
• Check with your dentist about use of supplemental fluoride, which strengthens your teeth, and about use of preventive resin restorations (stronger than sealants) applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth to protect them from decay.
• Visit your dentist regularly for professional cleanings and oral examinations.