4. See Your Dentist Twice a Year
Often oral problems cause no pain and can go undetected and get worse. To save you discomfort and money have a dental exam and tooth polishing every six months.

5. Know the Side Effects of Medication
Over 400 drugs can indirectly affect your dental health. Tell your dentist about your prescriptions, you may need a high fluoride rinse or gel to protect your teeth.

6. Stop Clenching and Grinding Your Teeth
Bruxism or grinding your teeth puts pressure of up to 250 pounds per square inch on your teeth. This can cause gums to recede and accelerate periodontal disease. If you wake up with a sore neck or jaw or have frequent headaches talk to your dentist about a splint.

7. Don't Smoke
Smokers are four times more likely than nonsmokers to have gum disease. Smoking can also cause oral cancer.

8. Use Your Teeth ONLY for Chewing Food
Tearing, cracking or biting objects or chewing on hard things can crack or break your teeth and cause loosen fillings and crowns.

9. Floss, Floss, Floss
If you don't floss you miss cleaning 30% of each tooth's surface leaving sticky, bacteria laden plaque between your teeth that can cause gum disease and tooth loss. Floss regularly, at least once a day.

10. Watch Out for Teeth Damaging Foods
Popcorn kernels, frozen candy bars and ice cubes can crack your teeth. Soft drinks contain acid and sugar that will erode tooth enamel and coffee and tea will stain your teeth.