Taking care of your teeth

Symptoms of gum diseaseYour gums are what hold your teeth in place. They are normally pink and firm. But acids from plaque buildup can hurt your gums. Gum disease is the main cause of tooth loss in adults. Be on the lookout for these signs of gum disease:

Gingivitis: Early-stage gum disease

•Gums appear red, shiny, and swollen.

•Gums feel soft.

•Gums bleed easily when brushing or flossing.

Periodontitis: Late-stage gum disease

•Teeth feel loose.

•Spaces form between teeth and gums.

•Bad breath or bad taste in mouth doesn’t go away with brushing.

•Teeth are sensitive to hot, cold, or sweet foods.

•Tooth infections cause dull pain, fever, or swelling in the face or glands.

If you notice any of these signs of gum disease, call your dentist right away. The earlier you take care of gum disease, the better. If you need help making an appointment, call 1.800.303.9626.

Finding a dentistMany people are nervous about going to the dentist. But you don’t have to be. Some dentists specialize in treating people who are afraid of dentists.

It also helps to know what will happen at your appointment.

Your dentist or a hygienist may:

•Check your teeth and gums

•Clean your teeth

•Take X-rays of your teeth to find cavities

•Treat any problems that are found

•Discuss ways to keep your teeth and gums healthy

Some MetroPlus Plans include dental care. Call Customer Services at 1.800.303.9626 to find out more. If your plan covers dental care, you can find a dentist by talking with Customer Services or checking our website, www.MetroPlus.org, and clicking on “Find a Doctor/Provider.”

10687CPS 1303

The information contained in this publication should not be used as a substitute for the medical

care and advice of your doctor. There may be variations in treatment that your doctor may

recommend based on individual facts about you.

MetroPlus Health Plan 160 Water St. 3rd Fl, New York, NY 10038

MetroPlus Medicaid: 1.800.475.METRO (6387) (TTY 1.800.881.2812)

MetroPlus Medicare: 1.866.986.0356 TTY: 711MetroPlus MLTC: 1.855.355.MLTC (6582)

(TTY: 1.800.881.2812)Hours of operation: Monday–Saturday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.

MKT 13.43

Brushing and flossingHere are some tips to make sure your teeth get as clean as possible:

Brushing

•Brush your teeth at least twice a day (or after every meal, if you can).

•Use tartar-control toothpaste with fluoride.

•Hold the brush at an angle, and use small, circular movements.

•Use the tip of the brush to get the spots behind your front teeth.

•Don’t forget to brush your tongue!

•Replace your toothbrush every 3 to 4 months, or after an illness or canker sore.

Flossing

•Floss your teeth at least once a day (before bed if you can).

•Floss in a pattern to make sure you always get between every tooth. Try starting on one side of your upper teeth, then switching to the other side. Do the same for your lower teeth.

•Use about 1½ to 2 feet of floss. Wrap most of it around one finger. As it’s used, wrap it around a finger on your other hand.

•Use a gentle back-and-forth motion. Your gums may bleed at first. This is normal and will stop once flossing becomes part of your routine.

Treat your teeth wellYour habits—good and bad—often affect your teeth. Follow these guidelines to keep your teeth healthy:

•Quit smoking. Tobacco can stain your teeth an ugly shade of yellow. It can also cause mouth or throat cancer. Not to mention bad breath. If you smoke, quit now.

•Get lots of calcium. Calcium is found in dairy products. It can also be found in some foods, like dark green, leafy vegetables. Calcium strengthens enamel, which is the hard stuff that coats your teeth.

•Avoid sugary food. Soda, candy, and other sweets may taste good, but they’re bad for your teeth. These foods turn into acids in your mouth. They can eat away at your teeth and lead to cavities.

Fluoride helpsFluoride is a natural mineral that helps strengthen your teeth. It is added to most city water supplies. It’s also in most toothpaste. According to the American Dental Association, adding fluoride to water prevents many cases of tooth decay.

Healthy teethThey’re the first thing someone sees when you smile. They’re your teeth—and they need to be taken care of.

Good oral hygiene is important and it is not just about keeping your teeth shiny and white. It’s about keeping your whole body healthy. Tooth decay can lead to infections that can spread to other areas of your body. In rare cases, these infections can even be deadly.

Brushing your teeth, flossing, and visiting the dentist are all great ways to keep your teeth in tip-top shape. Use this guide to learn some basic tooth care techniques. You can also learn the warning signs of dental problems, like gum disease or gingivitis.

Most dental problems are caused by plaque. Plaque is a sticky film made of bacteria. It clings to your teeth and makes acids, which cause tooth decay and gum disease. It can be removed with brushing and flossing. If it stays on your teeth too long, it hardens into tartar. Only your dentist can remove tartar.