Trends in dental health and maintenance tips The incidence of caries in children and adolescents in most European countries has been declining for some years. This has been attributed largely to the use of fluoride, mainly in toothpastes and oral hygiene improved. In the same period the diet, including consumption of sugars and other carbohydrates has remained constant. When cavities are controlled by fluoride and regular dental care (in most European countries), moderate consumption of sugars is not a major risk factor, except in people at high risk of tooth decay or not to use toothpaste fluoride - dental health education for children. More than half of European children between 5 and 7 years do not have cavities in their baby teeth (milk). In general, cavities are only affected to a tooth. The "DMF-T index" which refers to the number of decayed, fallen or fillings, is used to measure the frequency of dental European children 12 years caries.In rates began to decline in the 80's and continued to fall during 90 to reach the doses recommended by WHO in 2000. DMF-T figures for this age group ranging from 1 in Finland and the Netherlands, and 3 in Portugal, although they are higher in some countries of Eastern Europe. In some countries the prevalence of tooth decay is polarized, with 80% of cavities found in only 20% of the population. For these high-risk groups recommended specific strategies for intervention. In many countries the reduction of caries in children now extends to adolescents and youth. Older people keep their teeth longer. The risk of root caries, with receding gums can also be controlled with preventive measures described. Tips for maintaining dental health Good oral hygiene and the use of fluoride are now considered the main factors responsible for the prevention of tooth decay and promoting good oral health. The following tips are also important for keeping teeth caries-free. About to start caring for teeth brushing children's teeth with a fluoride toothpaste as they arise. Do not allow children to sleep while drinking from a bottle of drink with milk, formula, juice or sweetened liquids. These sweet liquids remain around baby's teeth for long periods of time and can cause "baby bottle tooth decay." Brushing your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and, if possible, clean between teeth with floss or toothpicks once a day. Do not eat after cleaning teeth at bedtime as salivary flow decreases during sleep. Visit your dentist every 6 months for a checkup and the dentist before using aesthetic products (eg teeth whitening) that can damage teeth. No eating or drinking continuously. Allow time between eating occasions for saliva to neutralize acids and repair the teeth. People at high risk of tooth wear and erosion should take special precautions, such as: Reduce the frequency and contact with acidic foods and drinks. Avoid brushing teeth immediately after consuming acidic foods, drinks, citrus fruits and juices. This allows time for remineralisation to occur. Fluorinated mouthwashes and sugar-free gum may help after drinking acidic foods and drinks as they encourage remineralisation. Sugarless gums are "friends" of the teeth and to help increase the flow of saliva and mouth clear of food scraps. Good dental health is the responsibility of individuals, communities and governments although their relative importance varies. For example, in some European countries water fluoridation is not accepted yet in the public domain and therefore responsible for preventing dental caries depends on individuals. Dentists play an important role in monitoring dental health and the treatment or prevention of disease. Access to good dental care, including periodic reviews, is vital. For some people, especially the depressed socioeconomic groups, access to dentists may be limited. These groups are important objectives of education programs of dental health. Schools also play an important role in educating children about the importance of good oral hygiene and diet.