Brush your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste to help prevent tooth decay and gum disease.

Regular toothbrushing by itself will not prevent tooth decay, but there is a definite benefit from regular brushing with a fluoride toothpaste. Dental scientists agree that fluoride toothpaste use has been the main cause of the decline in dental decay in Europe during the last three decades.

Care should be taken to ensure that young children do not eat toothpaste. Children under 7 years of age should be supervised when brushing to make sure they do it properly. Only a pea-sized amount of toothpaste is recommended for children under 7 and a tiny smear for babies.