1. The Horrors of Tooth Decay!

2. Bad dental health can be down-right spooky. Nothing sends people running away screaming like smelly breath. So, during the month of October, follow these easy steps to keep your fangs looking shiny and beautiful for years and years to come.

3. The Basics Brush your teeth every day with a fluoride toothpaste Floss your teeth every day Snack smart – limit sugary snacks Get enough calcium Don't smoke or chew tobacco Wear the right protective headgear while playing contact sports.

4. Going to the Dentist See your dentist regularly Ask your doctor if your medicines have side effects that might damage your teeth. (For example, some medicines may cause you to have a dry mouth.)

5. Brushing Your Teeth Gently brush your teeth on all sides with a soft- bristle brush and fluoride toothpaste. Use small circular motions and short back- and-forth strokes. Take the time to brush carefully and gently along the gum line. Lightly brush your tongue to help keep your mouth clean.

6. Drink water throughout the day. Especially after eating sweets. It will help rinse sugar away from teeth until there is time for proper brushing. Brush your teeth before you go to bed to prevent tooth decay. Look inside your mouth regularly for sores that don't heal, irritated gums or other changes.

7. Halloween Oral Help Tips http://bigcountryhomepage.com/content/holiday/halloween/fulltext/?cid=48451 Dental Health http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/dentalhealth.html Mouth and Teeth: How to Keep Them Healthy http://familydoctor.org/online/famdocen/home/healthy/prevention/100.printerview.html Sources:

8. Submitted by Lauren Denson, University of the Incarnate Word Supplement this bulletin board by passing out plastic vampire teeth to all of your residents!