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Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts


Do You Know the Secrets to Healthy Teeth?

Kate Lee
CONSUMER HEALTH INTERACTIVE

Healthy teeth are an endangered species. Three-quarters of Americans currently have gum disease, and about 25 percent of us will eventually be wearing dentures. The dental-hygiene industry has responded with antibacterial toothpaste and Gore-tex floss, not to mention high-tech electronic toothbrushes. Do you know what it takes to keep your chompers healthy? Chew on these questions and find out.


1. If you don't brush and floss well enough, plaque will build up on your teeth and cause

a. Cavities
b. Gum disease
c. Bad breath
d. All of the above

2. Most people don't brush

a. Hard enough
b. Long enough
c. Often enough
d. All of the above

3. You should replace your toothbrush at least once a month, because after only a few weeks of use the bristles will be

a. Too flattened to brush away plaque effectively
b. Sharp enough to tear your gum tissue
c. So worn they're a breeding ground for bacteria
d. All of the above

4. If your teeth are sensitive to heat, cold, or sweet things, switch to a toothpaste with

a. Tartar control
b. Strontium chloride
c. Baking soda
d. None of the above

5. Getting too much fluoride can result in

a. Fluoride-resistant bacteria
b. Cancer and lower IQs in children
c. White spots on children's teeth
d. All of the above

6. You can help stop yourself from grinding your teeth in your sleep by

a. Chewing gum during the day
b. Drinking hot tea before bed
c. Taking a hot bath at night
d. All of the above

7. When a permanent tooth gets knocked out, it should be

a. Rinsed and replaced in the socket right away
b. Packed in ice until you can get to the dentist
c. Put under your pillow for the tooth fairy
d. None of the above



First published Mar 04, 1999


Last updated Aug 27, 2007


Copyright © 1999 Consumer Health Interactive, a CVS Caremark company