Personal Care Tips: Dental Care What Brush teeth, tongue and gums at least twice a day for two to three minutes. Use a small amount (for children aged 3 - 12 the size of a match head and 12 and older the size of a small pea) of fluoridated toothpaste that is approved by the Canadian Dental Association. Clean between teeth with dental floss daily. Visit your dentist every 6-9 months. Limit sugary or starchy foods and drinks. Change your toothbrush every 2-3 months and after a cold or flu. Drink tap water every day (to get fluoride). When you can't brush your teeth, rinse your mouth with water, eat a small piece of cheese or chew sugarless gum to help clean your teeth. Allow your brush to air dry between uses. Why To have fresh breath and an attractive smile you need a clean mouth. Brushing and flossing will remove plaque. To have a clean mouth you must remove the plaque from between the teeth and under the gum line. Plaque is a thin, sticky film that contains the bacteria which causes tooth decay, gum disease and bad breath.