How To Keep Healthy Teeth & Gums Healthy Eating Habits Eat healthy and feed kids healthy foods, such as vegetables, fruit, bread, and meat. Control a “sweet tooth”. Avoid candy, cookies, and cake. Try apples, oranges, and bananas instead. Avoid sweet and sticky foods between meals. Drink milk for strong teeth and bones. Oral Health Practices Do not smoke or chew tobacco. Brush your teeth at least 2 times a day. One time should be at bedtime. Floss every day to remove the food between your teeth. Take your children under 21 years of age to the dentist 2 times a year. Do not give your children soda pop or sweetened drinks in bottles or sippy cups. Give your children water instead of sugary drinks. Be sure to brush your teeth after eating candy, raisins, dried fruit, and sugary foods.