Maintaining a healthy set of teeth over a lifetime requires attention to good dental health basics. This includes regular brushing and flossing as well as visits to a dentist at least twice annually for a dental examination and professional cleaning. It also includes developing other healthy habits, such as avoiding tobacco use and eating a healthy diet.

Removing dental plaque from the teeth is the primary goal of a sound dental care routine. Plaque is a sticky film composed of a combination of bacteria, food particles and acid. Dental plaque coats teeth after meals and gradually erodes the structure of the teeth. If it is not removed, it can leave holes in tooth enamel. These holes are known as cavities.

Plaque also causes periodontal (gum) disease, a mild to severe inflammation and infection of the gums, tissues and bones supporting and anchoring teeth to the jaw. Plaque will also harden into tartar over time, requiring professional cleaning for removal.

Good oral hygiene can also prevent bad breath (halitosis) by preventing the buildup of odor-producing bacteria in the mouth.

Evidence is mounting that proper oral hygiene may also prevent diseases and other health problems that can affect other areas of the body. Such illnesses include heart attacks, strokes, poorly controlled diabetes, premature birth and low birth weight infants.