All ages can enjoy good Oral Health and gain the advantages of having healthy teeth and gums by following a regular pattern regular visits to the dentist

n  Look after your teeth from an early age, and they will stay healthy for life.

n  Look after your gums from an early age, and they will stay healthy for life.

It is common sense, that if you take care of your Oral Hygiene, being taught, and repeating the practice from an early age then your mouth will give you no problems from an oral point of view.

However, as the ageing process sets in you may need to change the method by which you look after your Teeth and Gums, and is a good idea that you consult your local Dentist or Dental Association. The elderly are never too old to have both healthy Teeth and Gums or from stopping their regular visits to the Dentist.

Many elderly people are not aware that bad Oral Hygiene can bring about other infections, which can be the cause of other illness within them, but with the advances made currently in dental care, it is making it possible for more of the elderly within society to have much longer lasting teeth and healthier gums.

Common Oral Hygiene Problems in the Elderly.

n  Dryness of the Mouth. This is caused usually by a reduction in the production of saliva. It can also be caused by the taking of other prescribed medication.

n  Tooth Root Decay. The gums around the teeth start to recede. This in turn exposes the roots of teeth to bacteria, which can cause infections in the mouth, and adds to teeth rotting.

n  Darkening of Teeth. This can be caused by Dentine, which is the underlying tissue of the tooth enamel. It is most commonly the result of a lifetime of consuming coffee or tea.

n  Diseases of the Gums. Such diseases are the prime cause of tooth loss, and if neglected may lead to heart or respiratory problems.

Apart from the necessity of having regular dental check ups, the elderly person can do much to assist in ensuring his/her ongoing total Oral Hygiene, for teeth and gum health care.

n  Daily Flossing and Brushing. These two are very important in sustaining a healthy mouth.

n  Regular Check Up. It is essential that a dentist examines the inside of your mouth regularly. It is very difficult to see inside ones own mouth, even with a mirror!!

For further information on Teeth and Gum care, it is worth checking out   www.safedentistry.co.uk/DentalCareForTheElderly.html

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