Dental Care

Why are teeth important?

Teeth affect your physical, mental, and social health. You need good teeth to chew food into pieces small enough for your digestive system to handle. Neglected teeth become diseased and cannot do their work.

Good teeth also help your mental outlook. They help you look good and feel good about yourself. Bad teeth do nothing at all for your self-image. Good teeth affect people around you. Other people respond to a pleasant smile. Neglected teeth spoil a smile and may cause bad breath as well.

Teeth can last a lifetime if they are looked after. More than 60% of older Americans today still have their own teeth, compared to 44% some 30 years ago.

Why is dental care important?

Dental care is particularly important as you get older. The risk of developing tooth cavities is higher in older people than in teenagers. Neglected teeth also accumulate plaque (a sticky buildup of food particles, mucus, and mouth bacteria) around the base of the teeth. Plaque causes inflammation of the gums (gingivitis). Gingivitis can usually be cured by good dental hygiene. If it is neglected, however, gingivitis can progress to more serious periodontal disease and tooth loss.

Brushing

The single most effective measure for preserving teeth is daily brushing. Brush teeth in the morning and again before going to bed at night. Use a soft brush and replace it every 6 months. Pay attention to the gum line when you brush. Brushing the roof of the mouth and the tongue gently will also help remove germs and prevent bad breath. Brushing after each meal is best. If you can only brush once a day, it is best to do it at bedtime. Although electric toothbrushes don't clean the teeth any better than regular toothbrushes, they can be very helpful to people with arthritis. Ask your dentist or dental hygienist to show you the proper way to brush your teeth.

Flossing

Flossing will remove germs and food particles from between the teeth and along the gum line where brushing doesn't always reach. Insert the floss between teeth, using a gentle sawing motion. Move the floss up and down the side of each tooth.

Toothpaste

Use a fluoride toothpaste that is recommended by the American Dental Association.

Mouthwashes

Two antibacterial mouthwashes have been shown to reduce plaque, Listerine and Peridex.

Regular dental checkups

Yearly dental checkups are recommended. Even with daily brushing and flossing you may still have patches of plaque. During your checkup, your dentist will remove any plaque and check your teeth for cavities. Your dentist will also check your gums for infection or inflammation and the rest of your mouth for early signs of cancer.