Your mouth is more than just a smile. Looking after your teeth helps you eat and speak comfortably, feel confident and avoid pain, infections and costly dental treatment when you turn 18.
Why Oral Health Matters
Your smile is one of the first things people notice. Keeping your teeth and gums healthy helps you:
- Have a great smile – no stained teeth, missing teeth or fillings
- Avoid bad breath
- Prevent painful problems like cavities and gum disease
- Save money on dental treatments one you turn 18
Top Tips for a Healthy Mouth
Brush Twice a Day
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- Use fluoride toothpaste (1350–1500 ppm)
- Brush for 2 minutes, morning and night
- Don’t rinse after brushing—let the fluoride work!
Floss or Use Interdental Brushes
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- Clean between your teeth daily to remove plaque
Chew sugar free gum after eating
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- Sugar free gum helps you make more saliva and cancel out the acids which form in your mouth after eating
Cut Back on Sugar
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- Fizzy drinks, sweets, and energy drinks can damage your teeth
- Every time you eat or drink something sugary your teeth are under acid attach for up to one hour
 Visit Your Dentist Regularly
Protect Your Smile
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- Wear a mouthguard for contact sports
- Avoid smoking or vaping—they harm your teeth and gums
 Further information
How to keep your teeth clean – NHS
Enfield Oral Health Promotion Team
https://www.nhs.uk/service-search/find-a-dentist
Teens’ teeth – Oral Health Foundation
