By far the best way of protecting teeth is to give daily fluoride supplements, which have been shown to result in 60% reduction in tooth decay.
This is available as drops for babies and tiny tablets for older children.
It is essential; however, that one consults one's dentist about the dose, because this depends on the natural concentration of fluoride in the local water supply.
In fact, some areas have so much natural fluoride in the water that supplements are unnecessary.
Tooth decay and gum disease, the principal causes of tooth loss are the result of plaque gradually building up on the tooth surface.
To prevent this accumulation, regular brushing is important.
Most of us are aware of the damage that tooth decay causes.
The dangers of gum disease are less well known - although this is the commonest cause for tooth loss in adults.
This is probably because gum disease is essentially a painless and hidden process, and it is quite possible to remain unaware of the damage being done until it is too late.
Although tooth loss due to gum disease usually happens in middle age, the underlying cause is neglect in one's youth.
Your toothbrush plays a vital role in keeping the teeth and gums clean.
It should be changed at the first signs of wear, for splayed bristles will not remove plaque effectively.
Remember to clean not only the outside surface (the part that shows when you smile) but also the inside surfaces and the upper biting surfaces.
It is easy to take your teeth for granted - we miss them only after they are gone.
But with proper care, it is not difficult to preserve that attractive natural smile for a lifetime.