Teeth affect our physical, mental, and social health. Good teeth are needed to chew food properly. They also help us look and feel good. Neglected teeth become diseased and cannot perform their function. They may cause bad breath and spoil a smile as well.

Brushing is the single most effective way of preserving teeth. One must brush teeth with a soft or medium brush twice a day, in the morning and before going to bed at night. Brushing after each meal is ideal.

Flossing removes germs and food particles from between the teeth and along the gum line. It removes food particles that are not removed by brushing. The floss should be inserted between the teeth, using a gentle sawing motion. It should then be moved up and down the side of each tooth.

It is important to replace the brush every 6 months or earlier if the bristles get frayed.

Gentle brushing of the tongue and the roof of the mouth helps remove germs and prevent bad breath.

Use of antibacterial mouthwashes also helps in reducing plaque.

Rinse your mouth frequently during the day to avoid dental problems.

Annual dental checkups are recommended to remove any plaque, which may develop in-spite of daily brushing and flossing, check the teeth for cavities, the gums for infection or swelling and the mouth for early signs of cancer.

Don't smoke or chew tobacco. Smoking leads to discolouration of the teeth. Smoking reduces the flow of saliva which cleanses the lining of the mouth and teeth. It also causes chronic bad breath.

Ask your doctor if your medicines have side effects that might damage your teeth. (For example, some medicines may cause you to have a dry mouth.)

Look inside your mouth regularly for sores that don't heal, irritated gums or other changes.

Avoid foods with high concentration of sugar such as ice cream, halwa, gulab jamun, barfi and other sweets to avoid dental problems.

Eat more nutritious foods with less sugar such as milk, rice, meat, fruits and fish, etc. to have healthy teeth.

Most refreshing drinks and aerated drinks have a high concentration of sugar, and hence should be restricted for healthy teeth.

It is advisable to eat sweet dishes along with the rest of the meal instead of taking them in between meals. This is so because during meals saliva production is increased , and this helps in neutralising the acid that may damage the teeth.

Soft and sticky foods should be avoided because they attach and get between the teeth providing a favourable place for bacteria to grow.

Besides low sugar foods, low fat choices like raw vegetables, fresh fruits, or whole grain breads are also good choices. Eating the right foods can help prevent tooth decay and other diseases.