Seven Steps To Keeping Your Teeth Healthy For The Rest Of Your Life

If you take care of your smile, it can last a lifetime. As a result, it's critical for parents to teach proper oral hygiene habits in their children as soon as feasible.

According to the "National Call to Action to Promote Oral Health" study by US Surgeon General Richard H. Carmona, children miss more than 51 million school hours and adults miss more than 164 million work hours per year due to tooth disease or dental visits. In 2002, the overall cost of dental care in the United States was expected to be more than $70.1 billion.

Dr. Marsha Butler, Colgate-Vice Palmolive's President, Global Oral Health and Professional Relations, states, "Oral health disease is making worrying inroads into communities around the country." "Tooth decay is more common than asthma and hay fever among children aged 5 to 17 in the United States, and it poses a substantial threat to our children's overall health and well-being."

During National Children's Dental Health Month, Colgate and Dr. Carmona announced "The US Surgeon General's Seven Steps to a Bright Smile," a set of guidelines established with the support of a Colgate-Palmolive grant to help maintain teeth and gums strong and healthy:

1. Brush your teeth and gums at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, preferably after breakfast and before bedtime.

2. Go to the dentist on a regular basis.

3. Floss your teeth at least once a day.

4. Use a fluoride rinse to keep your teeth and gums strong and healthy.

5. Limit the number of snacks you take every day, and remember to eat healthily and acquire plenty of calcium.

6. When participating in sports, wear a mouthguard.

7. Inquire about dental sealants with your dentist.

Colgate has provided free dental exams, treatment referrals, and oral health education to more than 50 million children through its Bright Smiles, Bright Futures program. By 2010, the corporation will have reached more than half of its announced goal of reaching 100 million youngsters with these services. Bright Smiles, Bright Futures encourages kids to take charge of their oral health and raises awareness about the need of proper dental cleanliness.