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Dental Hygiene: What's Fact and Fiction?

You get one set of pearly whites -- here's how to sort fact from fiction so you can take care of them and keep them healthy for life! (11 Photos)

Arricca Elin SanSone on Aug 31, 2012 at 2:29PM

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Dental Hygiene: What's Fact and Fiction?

C. Robbins/photodisc/getty images

Fiction: There's Nothing You Can Do if You're Cavity-Prone

Nope. There’s plenty you can do. Brush at least twice a day and floss at least once a day. Also, ask your dentist about sealants, protective coatings that reduce cavities by bonding to the pits and fissures of chewing surfaces. Fluoride rinses used after brushing may also be helpful. (Look for the ADA Seal of Acceptance). If you can’t brush after meals or snacks, chew sugar-free xylitol gum. This natural sweetener found in plants and fruits can inhibit the growth of cavity-causing bacteria.

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When was the last time you had a dental exam?