Questions: Brushing Teeth

Question 1

How many times a day should you brush your teeth?

• A. Once a week
• B. Only when they feel dirty
• C. At least two times — morning and night
• D. Once a month

Answer: (C)

Dentists recommend brushing at least twice a day — once in the morning and once before bed. Germs and food bits build up on your teeth throughout the day and night. Brushing twice a day keeps them from causing damage.

Question 2

It does not matter if baby teeth get cavities because they fall out anyway.

• T. True
• F. False

Answer: False

Baby teeth matter a lot even though they eventually fall out. Cavities in baby teeth can cause pain, infection, and problems with eating and speaking. Unhealthy baby teeth can also affect the permanent teeth growing underneath. Taking care of baby teeth keeps your whole mouth healthy for when your grown-up teeth come in.

Question 3

What happens if you do not brush your teeth regularly?

Model answer: Germs and leftover food build up on your teeth and form a sticky layer called plaque. The germs in plaque make acid that eats tiny holes in your teeth called cavities. Cavities can hurt and need to be fixed by a dentist.

The germs in your mouth feed on leftover food, especially sugary foods. As they eat, they produce acid that slowly breaks down the hard outer layer of your teeth. Over time, this creates holes (cavities) that can cause toothaches and infections. Brushing removes the food and germs before they can do damage.