Good oral hygiene results in a mouth that looks and smells healthy. This means:

. Your teeth are clean and free of debris

. Gums are firmly held against teeth and do not hurt or bleed when you brush or floss

. Bad breath is not a constant problem

If your gums start to hurt or bleed while brushing or flossing, or you are experiencing persistent bad breath, see your dentist. Any of these conditions may indicate a problem.