A healthy smile starts with small, daily habits and a personalized plan that makes oral care simple, consistent, and effective.
Chethan Chetty, D.D.S., MAGD
President, Academy of General Dentistry
As a general dentist, I’ve heard lots of excuses for not scheduling regular dental appointments. For many, the biggest hurdle is simple — a busy schedule filled with work, family responsibilities, and life’s unexpected demands. For others, it’s a long commute to the nearest dental office or other concerns.
Whatever the barrier, one truth remains: oral health is too important to leave to chance. That’s why the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD) encourages everyone to build a personal oral health plan to serve as a proactive strategy to care for your mouth, teeth, and gums, even when getting to a dentist isn’t always easy. Plus, it’s simpler than it sounds!
Dental health doesn’t start in the chair. It begins at home, day after day, with small habits that protect your teeth and gums, preventing problems from developing in the first place. Think of it like maintaining your car, where regular care can help you avoid costly, painful repairs down the line.
Here’s how to make sure you’re getting the most from the resources available to you:
- Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste. Fluoride is proven to strengthen enamel and prevent decay, acting as a first line of defense against cavities.
- Floss daily. Your toothbrush cleans about 60% of your tooth surfaces. Flossing reaches the other 40%, removing plaque and food particles that can lead to gum disease.
- Rinse with water after meals. This simple step helps wash away sugars and acids, especially when brushing isn’t an immediate option.
- Drink plenty of water. In many areas, tap water contains fluoride, which provides added protection. Even where it doesn’t, water is essential to keep your mouth clean and hydrated.
- Limit sugary snacks and drinks. Frequent exposure to sugar fuels bacteria that produce acids, which erode the enamel and lead to cavities.
Creating an oral health plan isn’t just about what you do at home; it also means knowing when to get professional help. If you notice bleeding gums, persistent bad breath, tooth sensitivity, or mouth pain, don’t wait. Catching issues early often means simpler, less invasive treatment.
The AGD represents over 40,000 general dentists who believe everyone deserves a healthy smile. That’s why we encourage patients to partner with their general dentist to establish a personalized preventive care plan tailored to their specific needs.
Good oral health supports your overall health, confidence, and quality of life. With a few intentional steps and a practical plan, you can maintain a healthy mouth.
If you are looking for a general dentist to support your oral health needs, visit https://www.agd.org/practice/tools/patient-resources/find-an-agd-dentist.
