Help reduce the risk of oral disease by following these 5 steps

1. See your dentist regularly

Every person's needs are unique, but Dr. Cloth can advise you on the checkup and cleaning schedule that helps prevent problems and stops small problems from worsening.

2. Eat a balanced diet

Healthy food promotes wellness and good oral health. Avoid sugar.

3. Check regularly for warning signs

Gum disease is a leading cause of adult tooth loss. The warning signs can include red, shiny, puffy, sore, sensitive or bleeding gums and persistent bad breath. Oral cancer's warning signs can include inexplicable bleeding, open sores, white or red patches, numbness or tingling, and small lumps and thickening on the sides or bottom of your tongue, the floor or roof of your mouth, the inside of your cheeks or on your gums. Report these warning signs to Dr. Cloth.

4. Don't smoke or chew tobacco

Tobacco promotes gum disease and tooth loss and may lead to serious problems such as oral cancer.

5. Practice good oral hygiene

Floss your teeth once daily to clean between your teeth and use soft bristled toothbrush to brush your teeth and tongue at least twice daily with a natural (herbal) toothpaste to disperse plaque and bacteria.