Missing teeth Implants are the new teeth that feel like your own teethUnfortunately as we get older so do our teeth Some interesting facts we all should know

WelcomeDespite improvements in dental care many Australianssuffer tooth loss shyshy mostly due to tooth decay gingivitis(gum disease) or injury For many years the onlytreatment options available for people with missing teethwere bridges and dentures But today dental implants areavailable

There has been a longshystanding myth suggesting that toothloss is an inevitable part of ageing In reality it is simply theresult of an oral disease not the ageing process In fact themajority of people nowadays turn 55 with most if not ALL oftheir own teeth This newsletter will explain the majordental health issues you might be facing as you get oldersuch as oral disease and gives you a checklist of simplethings you can do to keep your teeth and gums healthy forlife

Dental implants A new lease on life

What Are Dental Implants

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In the news

A new study conducted in Taiwan found that individuals with sleepapnoea are 27 times more likely to develop oeteoporosis thanthose who do not have sleep apnoea

Researchers in Canada found that women who have low levels ofVitamin D during pregnancy exhibited a higher risk of caries

Researchers at New York University reported that swimming poolwater with a pH less than 72 can cause tooth enamel loss

Researchers in Spain found that red wine is effective in killingbacteria in oral biofilms on teeth Researchers in Brazil foundthat drinking black coffee can disrupt the biofilms on teeth andreduce dental caries

The state legislature of California is considering a bill that wouldrequire a warning label on nonshyalcoholic sweetened beveragescontaining 75 calories or more per 12 fluid ounces Currently the

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Dental implants are replacement tooth rootsImplants provide a strong foundation for fixed(permanent) or removable replacement teeth that aremade to match your natural teeth

What Are the Advantages of DentalImplants

There are many advantages to dental implants including

Improved appearance Dental implants look andfeel like your own teeth And because they aredesigned to fuse with bone they become permanentImproved speech With poorshyfitting dentures theteeth can slip within the mouth causing you tomumble or slur your words Dental implants allowyou to speak without the worry that teeth might slipImproved comfort Because they become part ofyou implants eliminate the discomfort of removabledenturesEasier eating Sliding dentures can make chewingdifficult Dental implants function like your ownteeth allowing you to eat your favourite foods withconfidence and without painImproved selfshyesteem Dental implants can giveyou back your smile and help you feel better aboutyourselfImproved oral health Dental implants dontrequire reducing other teeth as a toothshysupported

proposed labeling is Drinking beverages with added sugar(s)contributes to obesity diabetes and tooth decay

Video links

Veneers

httpyoutubej7BnIEcJXeU

Fissure sealants

httpyoutube_WanH8d8gZ8

Steve MartinshyBe A Dentist

httpswwwyoutubecomwatchv=bOtMizMQ6oM

Recipe links

Having Hungarian heritage this is one of my favourite dishes I grewup with

I make it slightly different by using 1kg pork 1kg veal and 400gground ham (I like left overs) I also add 3 eggs at least 3 onionsand a sprinkle of Vegetta and sweet paprika into the mix and cheatby using a large jar of pickled cabbage leaves For the sauce I sautethinly sliced onion rings and several tins of sour kraut in olive oil Tothis I add several tins of tomato puree Serve it up with sour creamand a loaf of fresh bread Enjoy

bridge does Because nearby teeth are not altered tosupport the implant more of your own teeth are leftintact improving longshyterm oral health Individualimplants also allow easier access between teethimproving oral hygieneDurability Implants are very durable and will lastmany years With good care many implants last alifetimeConvenience Removable dentures are just thatremovable Dental implants eliminate theembarrassing inconvenience of removing denturesas well as the need for messy adhesives to keepthem in place

How Successful Are Dental Implants

Success rates of dental implants vary depending on wherein the jaw the implants are placed but in general dentalimplants have a success rate of up to 98 With propercare implants can last a lifetime

Can Anyone Get Dental Implants

In most cases anyone healthy enough to undergo aroutine dental extraction or oral surgery can beconsidered for a dental implant Patients should havehealthy gums and enough bone to hold the implantThey also must be committed to good oral hygieneand regular dental visits Heavy smokers peoplesuffering from uncontrolled chronic disorders shyshy suchas diabetes or heart disease shyshy or patients who havehad radiation therapy to the headneck area need tobe evaluated on an individual basis If you areconsidering implants talk to your dentist to see ifthey are right for you

Dental problems after 55Most of us are aware of the wellshypublicised general medicalissues we face as we get older like heart disease andosteoporosis Unless a problem develops we tend not tothink about our oral health

There are some specific things to watch out for that may

httpwwwmygourmetconnectioncomrecipesmainshycoursesbeefhungarianshystyleshystuffedshycabbagephp

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become a problem later in life If we are to maintain healthyteeth and gums and avoid the discomfort and expense thatdental problems can bring then a good oral health careroutine becomes all the more importantFor those of us nearing or at retirement the focus needs tobe on dental care that is sustainable throughout our olderage and needs to take into account changing general healthand financial circumstances Thatrsquos why the ADA advocatespreventative dental care for all including those aged over55 with the emphasis on getting you actively involved inchoices about your dental care

In this section you will find information on

Dry MouthTooth DecayGum DiseaseCracked TeethRecession ( getting long in the tooth )Wearing Away of TeethOral Cancer

Dry MouthThe Problem

The problem

Often the result of taking medications an illness or cancertreatment dry mouth is a reduction in saliva production Itcan make it hard to eat swallow taste and even speak Drymouth can make you more susceptible to tooth decay andgum problems as saliva is antibacterial and helps fight toothdecay by washing away the acids produced when plaqueinteracts with sugar Even if you wear dentures dry mouthcan cause problems

What can I do

The use of an artificial saliva replacement may helpto lubricate your mouth both at meal times and inbetween meals if you feel any discomfortDrink plenty of water or sugarless drinks to reshyhydrate regularly particularly if you work or live in avery dry environmentIt may help to chew sugarshyfree gum or suck sugarshyfree sweetsLemon rind an olive pit or even a small object held inthe mouth can stimulate salivaIf you are prescribed any form of cancer treatmentsee your dentist before you start as dry mouth canlead to other complicationsAvoid caffeine alcohol and sugary drinks or sweetsDont smoke

Tooth DecayThe Problem

Teeth are covered with a hard outer surface called enamelEvery day a thin film of bacteria builds up on your teethOver time the bacteria can reduce the strength of the

enamel and cavities can form

What can I do

Protect your teeth by brushing with a fluoridetoothpaste twice a day (especially after meals) anduse dental floss between the teeth to remove plaqueIf indicated by your dentist use as directed a fluoriderinse at homeSee your dentist regularly for advice regarding othernecessary treatments

Gum DiseaseThe problem

Gum disease also known as periodontitis is a chronicbacterial infection of the gums and teeth Harmful bacteriaare contained in a colourless sticky film called lsquoplaquersquo thatdeposits on teeth particularly around the gum lineWithout regular brushing and flossing plaque accumulatesand causes the gums to become inflamed swollen andbleeds easily This is commonly known as gingivitis If yousuffer from periodontitis you may also have bleeding andswelling but the difference from gingivitis is that the gumsbecome quite inflamed and the structures that anchor thegum to the tooth and bone start to break down The bonesupporting the tooth begins to be lost and it forms aperiodontal pocket ndash a gap between the gum and the tooththat becomes increasingly difficult to clean The bacteriastart to move deeper down and thrive in this pocketcausing the attachment of the tooth and its supportingtissues to break down The ultimate outcome can be toothloss

What can I do

The best way to prevent and manage gingivitis is byminimising plaque with brushing and flossing Even if youhave managed to avoid periodontitis it is especiallyimportant to practice a regular effective oral care routine

To keep teeth for a lifetime plaque must be removedevery day with brushing flossing and the use of amouthwash if advised by your dentistRegular dental visits and professional cleaning arenecessary to remove plaque and hard calculus fromplaces a toothbrush and floss may have missedEat a wellshybalanced diet and limit betweenshymealsnacks especially those high in sugarsQuit smoking and limit alcohol consumption

Cracked TeethThe Problem

A crack in the tooth will expose the inside of the tooth (thedentine) that has very small fluid filled tubes that lead tothe nerve (pulp) Flexing of the tooth opens the crack andcauses movement of the fluid within the tubes When youlet the biting pressure off the crack closes and the fluidpressure simulates the nerve and causes painFront teeth usually break due to a knock an accident orduring biting Back teeth can also be fractured from a knockbut are much more likely to crack from forces applied by the

jaws slamming together rapidly This is why sportspeoplewear mouthguards to cushion the blowOther forces occur during sleep because people grind theirteeth with a much greater force than they would ever dowhile awake The first sign of problems may be what we callcracked tooth syndrome ndash a sore or sensitive toothusually when biting somewhere in the mouth that is oftenhard for even the dentist to find In some individuals thegrinding called bruxism causes tooth wear rather thanfractureUnlike fractures elsewhere in the body this crack will neverheal There is a small chance that the crack will get worseeven with a crown placed over the top of the tooth Thismay lead to the need for root canal treatment or evenremoval of the tooth However many cracks can be fixedwithout root canal or tooth removal

What can I do

Most fractures cannot be avoided because they happenwhen you least expect them However you can reduce therisk of breaking teeth by

Trying to eliminate clenching habits during wakinghoursAvoiding chewing hard objects (eg bones pencilsice)Avoiding chewing hard foods such as pork cracklingand hardshygrain bread

If you think you grind your teeth at night ask your dentistif a nightguard or a splint will be of use to youTry to prevent dental decay and have it treated earlyHeavily decayed and therefore heavily filled teeth areweaker than teeth that have never been filled

Recession (Long in thetooth)

The Problem

As many of us get older our gums start to recede makingour teeth appear longer When gums recede the root of thetooth is exposed which is less resilient to decay erosion andabrasion than the rest of the tooth Recession can be theresult of poor brushing technique Over brushing or use anonshysoft bristled toothbrush can lead to gum recession andwearing away of enamel Gingivitis can be a warning sign ofpoor brushing technique characterized by easily bleedinggums when brushing or flossing

What can I do

Prevention and early treatment of gum recession areextremely important because gum recession is usuallyirreversible Proper professional care by your dentist is thecornerstone of healthy gums but correct home care is alsoessential Practice regular brushing and flossing (use a softtoothbrush) as demonstrated by your oral healthprofessional Since the bacteria that cause gum disease andrecession accumulate adjacent to and under the gum lineplaque removal is the single most important preventivemeasure

Wearing away of TeethThe Problem

This can be the result of aggressive tooth brushing using ahard toothbrush or very abrasive toothpaste

What can I do

Ask your dentist to demonstrate the correct tooth brushingtechnique and ask about the effectiveness of a fluoridetreatment to make the roots of your teeth more resistantto decay and what you can use at home to prevent decayand sensitivityAvoid snacks between meals and finish every meal withwaterDrink fluoridated tap water and brush with a fluoridetoothpaste or gel and use a fluoride rinse Fluoride acts withminerals in the saliva to restore tooth surfaces damaged inthe early stages of tooth decay and leaves surfaces moreresistant to tooth decay

Oral CancerThe Problem

Oral cancer most often occurs in people over 40 It is oftendifficult to detect in its early stages before it has had achance to spread when it can be cured easily Pain is notusually an early symptom so itrsquos important to look out forother early signs Watch for any red or white patches onyour tongue or gums and watch for sores that fail to healwithin two weeks If you see any of these signs see yourdentist immediately

What can I do

If you suspect you may be at risk your dentist can performa head and neck examination to look for signs Your regularcheck up is a good time to ask for this to be done andanother reason to have themEven if you have lost all your natural teeth you should stillget regular oral cancer exams if you think you may be atrisk

Do not use tobacco products ndash cigarettes cigarspipes chewing tobacco or snuffIf you drink alcohol do so in moderationUse lip balm with sunscreenMost important as with all preventative care is to doyour own regular checks at home Become familiarwith the inside of your mouth so that any changeswill be obvious to you when they happen

Lifestyle IssuesApart from the obvious dental health issues like oral cancerand gum disease as we get older changes in our lifestylediet physical health financial situation and routine can playa part in contributing to dental health problemsThis section covers some of the less obvious risk factors topoor dental health and suggests ways to combat themWhether itrsquos for yourself or for someone else (a partner aparent or a friend) keeping these issues in mind will helpyou to tackle dental health problems from a number ofdifferent angles The solution wonrsquot always involve a trip tothe dentist and there are a lot of things that you can do(often at no or low cost) to give your mouth the bestchance of a healthy retirement

In this section you will find information on

Difficulty with BrushingDenturesDietNutrition Tips

Lifestyle FactorsAccess to Dental Care

Difficulty BrushingThe Problem

If you have arthritis or other conditions that limit handmovement you may find it difficult to brush and floss

What can I do

Ask your dentist for ways to overcome this problem Certaindental products are designed to make dental care lesspainful for arthritis sufferers You can try strapping yourtoothbrush to a larger object thatrsquos easier to hold or youcould try an electric toothbrush that will do most of thework for you There are floss holders available in pharmaciesthat make flossing easier but ask your dentist to show youthe correct way to floss

DenturesThe Problem

Sometimes dentures can feel strange at first and it can bedifficult to eat Also as your mouth changes over time yourdentures will need to be reshyfitted or replaced Be carefulwhen wearing dentures because they may make it harderfor you to feel hot foods and liquids and you may not noticethings like bones in your mouth

What can I do

Itrsquos important to keep your dentures (whether theyrsquore thefull set or partial dentures) clean and wellshyfitting so makesure you monitor how they feel and see your dentistregularly (once every year is good but try not to go longerthan two years in between check ups) to ensure theycontinue to fit correctlyAll dentures lose their fit through natural changes in yourmouth Chewing gum biting your nails or grinding yourteeth can accelerate this For example many patientsreport that their full dentures are loose after a period ofrapid weight lossKeep your dentures clean and free from food that can causestains bad breath or swollen gums Brush them every daywith a denture care product and take them out at night toput them in water or a denture cleansing liquidIf you find it difficult to eat with dentures particularly ifyoursquore just starting out with them start off with soft nonshysticky foods Cut your food into small pieces and chewslowly using both sides of your mouth

DietFirst a note on nutrition

As wersquore looking particularly at dental health here wersquollconcentrate mainly on the aspects of food and diet that aredirectly relevant A healthy balanced diet is important nomatter what age you are as good nutrition is thecornerstone of good health For a comprehensive look athow to maintain a healthy diet we recommend you visit thiswebsite for detailed information and help

wwwnutritionaustraliaorg

If your diet is generally good and you have no dental healthissues that are preventing you from eating the right kindsof foods then carry on doing what yoursquore doing and followthe general advice on oral health tips

enamel and cavities can form

What can I do

Protect your teeth by brushing with a fluoridetoothpaste twice a day (especially after meals) anduse dental floss between the teeth to remove plaqueIf indicated by your dentist use as directed a fluoriderinse at homeSee your dentist regularly for advice regarding othernecessary treatments

Gum DiseaseThe problem

Gum disease also known as periodontitis is a chronicbacterial infection of the gums and teeth Harmful bacteriaare contained in a colourless sticky film called lsquoplaquersquo thatdeposits on teeth particularly around the gum lineWithout regular brushing and flossing plaque accumulatesand causes the gums to become inflamed swollen andbleeds easily This is commonly known as gingivitis If yousuffer from periodontitis you may also have bleeding andswelling but the difference from gingivitis is that the gumsbecome quite inflamed and the structures that anchor thegum to the tooth and bone start to break down The bonesupporting the tooth begins to be lost and it forms aperiodontal pocket ndash a gap between the gum and the tooththat becomes increasingly difficult to clean The bacteriastart to move deeper down and thrive in this pocketcausing the attachment of the tooth and its supportingtissues to break down The ultimate outcome can be toothloss

What can I do

The best way to prevent and manage gingivitis is byminimising plaque with brushing and flossing Even if youhave managed to avoid periodontitis it is especiallyimportant to practice a regular effective oral care routine

To keep teeth for a lifetime plaque must be removedevery day with brushing flossing and the use of amouthwash if advised by your dentistRegular dental visits and professional cleaning arenecessary to remove plaque and hard calculus fromplaces a toothbrush and floss may have missedEat a wellshybalanced diet and limit betweenshymealsnacks especially those high in sugarsQuit smoking and limit alcohol consumption

Cracked TeethThe Problem

A crack in the tooth will expose the inside of the tooth (thedentine) that has very small fluid filled tubes that lead tothe nerve (pulp) Flexing of the tooth opens the crack andcauses movement of the fluid within the tubes When youlet the biting pressure off the crack closes and the fluidpressure simulates the nerve and causes painFront teeth usually break due to a knock an accident orduring biting Back teeth can also be fractured from a knockbut are much more likely to crack from forces applied by the

jaws slamming together rapidly This is why sportspeoplewear mouthguards to cushion the blowOther forces occur during sleep because people grind theirteeth with a much greater force than they would ever dowhile awake The first sign of problems may be what we callcracked tooth syndrome ndash a sore or sensitive toothusually when biting somewhere in the mouth that is oftenhard for even the dentist to find In some individuals thegrinding called bruxism causes tooth wear rather thanfractureUnlike fractures elsewhere in the body this crack will neverheal There is a small chance that the crack will get worseeven with a crown placed over the top of the tooth Thismay lead to the need for root canal treatment or evenremoval of the tooth However many cracks can be fixedwithout root canal or tooth removal

What can I do

Most fractures cannot be avoided because they happenwhen you least expect them However you can reduce therisk of breaking teeth by

Trying to eliminate clenching habits during wakinghoursAvoiding chewing hard objects (eg bones pencilsice)Avoiding chewing hard foods such as pork cracklingand hardshygrain bread

If you think you grind your teeth at night ask your dentistif a nightguard or a splint will be of use to youTry to prevent dental decay and have it treated earlyHeavily decayed and therefore heavily filled teeth areweaker than teeth that have never been filled

Recession (Long in thetooth)

The Problem

As many of us get older our gums start to recede makingour teeth appear longer When gums recede the root of thetooth is exposed which is less resilient to decay erosion andabrasion than the rest of the tooth Recession can be theresult of poor brushing technique Over brushing or use anonshysoft bristled toothbrush can lead to gum recession andwearing away of enamel Gingivitis can be a warning sign ofpoor brushing technique characterized by easily bleedinggums when brushing or flossing

What can I do

Prevention and early treatment of gum recession areextremely important because gum recession is usuallyirreversible Proper professional care by your dentist is thecornerstone of healthy gums but correct home care is alsoessential Practice regular brushing and flossing (use a softtoothbrush) as demonstrated by your oral healthprofessional Since the bacteria that cause gum disease andrecession accumulate adjacent to and under the gum lineplaque removal is the single most important preventivemeasure

Wearing away of TeethThe Problem

This can be the result of aggressive tooth brushing using ahard toothbrush or very abrasive toothpaste

What can I do

Ask your dentist to demonstrate the correct tooth brushingtechnique and ask about the effectiveness of a fluoridetreatment to make the roots of your teeth more resistantto decay and what you can use at home to prevent decayand sensitivityAvoid snacks between meals and finish every meal withwaterDrink fluoridated tap water and brush with a fluoridetoothpaste or gel and use a fluoride rinse Fluoride acts withminerals in the saliva to restore tooth surfaces damaged inthe early stages of tooth decay and leaves surfaces moreresistant to tooth decay

Oral CancerThe Problem

Oral cancer most often occurs in people over 40 It is oftendifficult to detect in its early stages before it has had achance to spread when it can be cured easily Pain is notusually an early symptom so itrsquos important to look out forother early signs Watch for any red or white patches onyour tongue or gums and watch for sores that fail to healwithin two weeks If you see any of these signs see yourdentist immediately

What can I do

If you suspect you may be at risk your dentist can performa head and neck examination to look for signs Your regularcheck up is a good time to ask for this to be done andanother reason to have themEven if you have lost all your natural teeth you should stillget regular oral cancer exams if you think you may be atrisk

Do not use tobacco products ndash cigarettes cigarspipes chewing tobacco or snuffIf you drink alcohol do so in moderationUse lip balm with sunscreenMost important as with all preventative care is to doyour own regular checks at home Become familiarwith the inside of your mouth so that any changeswill be obvious to you when they happen

Lifestyle IssuesApart from the obvious dental health issues like oral cancerand gum disease as we get older changes in our lifestylediet physical health financial situation and routine can playa part in contributing to dental health problemsThis section covers some of the less obvious risk factors topoor dental health and suggests ways to combat themWhether itrsquos for yourself or for someone else (a partner aparent or a friend) keeping these issues in mind will helpyou to tackle dental health problems from a number ofdifferent angles The solution wonrsquot always involve a trip tothe dentist and there are a lot of things that you can do(often at no or low cost) to give your mouth the bestchance of a healthy retirement

In this section you will find information on

Difficulty with BrushingDenturesDietNutrition Tips

Lifestyle FactorsAccess to Dental Care

Difficulty BrushingThe Problem

If you have arthritis or other conditions that limit handmovement you may find it difficult to brush and floss

What can I do

Ask your dentist for ways to overcome this problem Certaindental products are designed to make dental care lesspainful for arthritis sufferers You can try strapping yourtoothbrush to a larger object thatrsquos easier to hold or youcould try an electric toothbrush that will do most of thework for you There are floss holders available in pharmaciesthat make flossing easier but ask your dentist to show youthe correct way to floss

DenturesThe Problem

Sometimes dentures can feel strange at first and it can bedifficult to eat Also as your mouth changes over time yourdentures will need to be reshyfitted or replaced Be carefulwhen wearing dentures because they may make it harderfor you to feel hot foods and liquids and you may not noticethings like bones in your mouth

What can I do

Itrsquos important to keep your dentures (whether theyrsquore thefull set or partial dentures) clean and wellshyfitting so makesure you monitor how they feel and see your dentistregularly (once every year is good but try not to go longerthan two years in between check ups) to ensure theycontinue to fit correctlyAll dentures lose their fit through natural changes in yourmouth Chewing gum biting your nails or grinding yourteeth can accelerate this For example many patientsreport that their full dentures are loose after a period ofrapid weight lossKeep your dentures clean and free from food that can causestains bad breath or swollen gums Brush them every daywith a denture care product and take them out at night toput them in water or a denture cleansing liquidIf you find it difficult to eat with dentures particularly ifyoursquore just starting out with them start off with soft nonshysticky foods Cut your food into small pieces and chewslowly using both sides of your mouth

DietFirst a note on nutrition

As wersquore looking particularly at dental health here wersquollconcentrate mainly on the aspects of food and diet that aredirectly relevant A healthy balanced diet is important nomatter what age you are as good nutrition is thecornerstone of good health For a comprehensive look athow to maintain a healthy diet we recommend you visit thiswebsite for detailed information and help

wwwnutritionaustraliaorg

If your diet is generally good and you have no dental healthissues that are preventing you from eating the right kindsof foods then carry on doing what yoursquore doing and followthe general advice on oral health tips

jaws slamming together rapidly This is why sportspeoplewear mouthguards to cushion the blowOther forces occur during sleep because people grind theirteeth with a much greater force than they would ever dowhile awake The first sign of problems may be what we callcracked tooth syndrome ndash a sore or sensitive toothusually when biting somewhere in the mouth that is oftenhard for even the dentist to find In some individuals thegrinding called bruxism causes tooth wear rather thanfractureUnlike fractures elsewhere in the body this crack will neverheal There is a small chance that the crack will get worseeven with a crown placed over the top of the tooth Thismay lead to the need for root canal treatment or evenremoval of the tooth However many cracks can be fixedwithout root canal or tooth removal

What can I do

Most fractures cannot be avoided because they happenwhen you least expect them However you can reduce therisk of breaking teeth by

Trying to eliminate clenching habits during wakinghoursAvoiding chewing hard objects (eg bones pencilsice)Avoiding chewing hard foods such as pork cracklingand hardshygrain bread

If you think you grind your teeth at night ask your dentistif a nightguard or a splint will be of use to youTry to prevent dental decay and have it treated earlyHeavily decayed and therefore heavily filled teeth areweaker than teeth that have never been filled

Recession (Long in thetooth)

The Problem

As many of us get older our gums start to recede makingour teeth appear longer When gums recede the root of thetooth is exposed which is less resilient to decay erosion andabrasion than the rest of the tooth Recession can be theresult of poor brushing technique Over brushing or use anonshysoft bristled toothbrush can lead to gum recession andwearing away of enamel Gingivitis can be a warning sign ofpoor brushing technique characterized by easily bleedinggums when brushing or flossing

What can I do

Prevention and early treatment of gum recession areextremely important because gum recession is usuallyirreversible Proper professional care by your dentist is thecornerstone of healthy gums but correct home care is alsoessential Practice regular brushing and flossing (use a softtoothbrush) as demonstrated by your oral healthprofessional Since the bacteria that cause gum disease andrecession accumulate adjacent to and under the gum lineplaque removal is the single most important preventivemeasure

Wearing away of TeethThe Problem

This can be the result of aggressive tooth brushing using ahard toothbrush or very abrasive toothpaste

What can I do

Ask your dentist to demonstrate the correct tooth brushingtechnique and ask about the effectiveness of a fluoridetreatment to make the roots of your teeth more resistantto decay and what you can use at home to prevent decayand sensitivityAvoid snacks between meals and finish every meal withwaterDrink fluoridated tap water and brush with a fluoridetoothpaste or gel and use a fluoride rinse Fluoride acts withminerals in the saliva to restore tooth surfaces damaged inthe early stages of tooth decay and leaves surfaces moreresistant to tooth decay

Oral CancerThe Problem

Oral cancer most often occurs in people over 40 It is oftendifficult to detect in its early stages before it has had achance to spread when it can be cured easily Pain is notusually an early symptom so itrsquos important to look out forother early signs Watch for any red or white patches onyour tongue or gums and watch for sores that fail to healwithin two weeks If you see any of these signs see yourdentist immediately

What can I do

If you suspect you may be at risk your dentist can performa head and neck examination to look for signs Your regularcheck up is a good time to ask for this to be done andanother reason to have themEven if you have lost all your natural teeth you should stillget regular oral cancer exams if you think you may be atrisk

Do not use tobacco products ndash cigarettes cigarspipes chewing tobacco or snuffIf you drink alcohol do so in moderationUse lip balm with sunscreenMost important as with all preventative care is to doyour own regular checks at home Become familiarwith the inside of your mouth so that any changeswill be obvious to you when they happen

Lifestyle IssuesApart from the obvious dental health issues like oral cancerand gum disease as we get older changes in our lifestylediet physical health financial situation and routine can playa part in contributing to dental health problemsThis section covers some of the less obvious risk factors topoor dental health and suggests ways to combat themWhether itrsquos for yourself or for someone else (a partner aparent or a friend) keeping these issues in mind will helpyou to tackle dental health problems from a number ofdifferent angles The solution wonrsquot always involve a trip tothe dentist and there are a lot of things that you can do(often at no or low cost) to give your mouth the bestchance of a healthy retirement

In this section you will find information on

Difficulty with BrushingDenturesDietNutrition Tips

Lifestyle FactorsAccess to Dental Care

Difficulty BrushingThe Problem

If you have arthritis or other conditions that limit handmovement you may find it difficult to brush and floss

What can I do

Ask your dentist for ways to overcome this problem Certaindental products are designed to make dental care lesspainful for arthritis sufferers You can try strapping yourtoothbrush to a larger object thatrsquos easier to hold or youcould try an electric toothbrush that will do most of thework for you There are floss holders available in pharmaciesthat make flossing easier but ask your dentist to show youthe correct way to floss

DenturesThe Problem

Sometimes dentures can feel strange at first and it can bedifficult to eat Also as your mouth changes over time yourdentures will need to be reshyfitted or replaced Be carefulwhen wearing dentures because they may make it harderfor you to feel hot foods and liquids and you may not noticethings like bones in your mouth

What can I do

Itrsquos important to keep your dentures (whether theyrsquore thefull set or partial dentures) clean and wellshyfitting so makesure you monitor how they feel and see your dentistregularly (once every year is good but try not to go longerthan two years in between check ups) to ensure theycontinue to fit correctlyAll dentures lose their fit through natural changes in yourmouth Chewing gum biting your nails or grinding yourteeth can accelerate this For example many patientsreport that their full dentures are loose after a period ofrapid weight lossKeep your dentures clean and free from food that can causestains bad breath or swollen gums Brush them every daywith a denture care product and take them out at night toput them in water or a denture cleansing liquidIf you find it difficult to eat with dentures particularly ifyoursquore just starting out with them start off with soft nonshysticky foods Cut your food into small pieces and chewslowly using both sides of your mouth

DietFirst a note on nutrition

As wersquore looking particularly at dental health here wersquollconcentrate mainly on the aspects of food and diet that aredirectly relevant A healthy balanced diet is important nomatter what age you are as good nutrition is thecornerstone of good health For a comprehensive look athow to maintain a healthy diet we recommend you visit thiswebsite for detailed information and help

wwwnutritionaustraliaorg

If your diet is generally good and you have no dental healthissues that are preventing you from eating the right kindsof foods then carry on doing what yoursquore doing and followthe general advice on oral health tips

What can I do

Ask your dentist to demonstrate the correct tooth brushingtechnique and ask about the effectiveness of a fluoridetreatment to make the roots of your teeth more resistantto decay and what you can use at home to prevent decayand sensitivityAvoid snacks between meals and finish every meal withwaterDrink fluoridated tap water and brush with a fluoridetoothpaste or gel and use a fluoride rinse Fluoride acts withminerals in the saliva to restore tooth surfaces damaged inthe early stages of tooth decay and leaves surfaces moreresistant to tooth decay

Oral CancerThe Problem

Oral cancer most often occurs in people over 40 It is oftendifficult to detect in its early stages before it has had achance to spread when it can be cured easily Pain is notusually an early symptom so itrsquos important to look out forother early signs Watch for any red or white patches onyour tongue or gums and watch for sores that fail to healwithin two weeks If you see any of these signs see yourdentist immediately

What can I do

If you suspect you may be at risk your dentist can performa head and neck examination to look for signs Your regularcheck up is a good time to ask for this to be done andanother reason to have themEven if you have lost all your natural teeth you should stillget regular oral cancer exams if you think you may be atrisk

Do not use tobacco products ndash cigarettes cigarspipes chewing tobacco or snuffIf you drink alcohol do so in moderationUse lip balm with sunscreenMost important as with all preventative care is to doyour own regular checks at home Become familiarwith the inside of your mouth so that any changeswill be obvious to you when they happen

Lifestyle IssuesApart from the obvious dental health issues like oral cancerand gum disease as we get older changes in our lifestylediet physical health financial situation and routine can playa part in contributing to dental health problemsThis section covers some of the less obvious risk factors topoor dental health and suggests ways to combat themWhether itrsquos for yourself or for someone else (a partner aparent or a friend) keeping these issues in mind will helpyou to tackle dental health problems from a number ofdifferent angles The solution wonrsquot always involve a trip tothe dentist and there are a lot of things that you can do(often at no or low cost) to give your mouth the bestchance of a healthy retirement

In this section you will find information on

Difficulty with BrushingDenturesDietNutrition Tips

Lifestyle FactorsAccess to Dental Care

Difficulty BrushingThe Problem

If you have arthritis or other conditions that limit handmovement you may find it difficult to brush and floss

What can I do

Ask your dentist for ways to overcome this problem Certaindental products are designed to make dental care lesspainful for arthritis sufferers You can try strapping yourtoothbrush to a larger object thatrsquos easier to hold or youcould try an electric toothbrush that will do most of thework for you There are floss holders available in pharmaciesthat make flossing easier but ask your dentist to show youthe correct way to floss

DenturesThe Problem

Sometimes dentures can feel strange at first and it can bedifficult to eat Also as your mouth changes over time yourdentures will need to be reshyfitted or replaced Be carefulwhen wearing dentures because they may make it harderfor you to feel hot foods and liquids and you may not noticethings like bones in your mouth

What can I do

Itrsquos important to keep your dentures (whether theyrsquore thefull set or partial dentures) clean and wellshyfitting so makesure you monitor how they feel and see your dentistregularly (once every year is good but try not to go longerthan two years in between check ups) to ensure theycontinue to fit correctlyAll dentures lose their fit through natural changes in yourmouth Chewing gum biting your nails or grinding yourteeth can accelerate this For example many patientsreport that their full dentures are loose after a period ofrapid weight lossKeep your dentures clean and free from food that can causestains bad breath or swollen gums Brush them every daywith a denture care product and take them out at night toput them in water or a denture cleansing liquidIf you find it difficult to eat with dentures particularly ifyoursquore just starting out with them start off with soft nonshysticky foods Cut your food into small pieces and chewslowly using both sides of your mouth

DietFirst a note on nutrition

As wersquore looking particularly at dental health here wersquollconcentrate mainly on the aspects of food and diet that aredirectly relevant A healthy balanced diet is important nomatter what age you are as good nutrition is thecornerstone of good health For a comprehensive look athow to maintain a healthy diet we recommend you visit thiswebsite for detailed information and help

wwwnutritionaustraliaorg

If your diet is generally good and you have no dental healthissues that are preventing you from eating the right kindsof foods then carry on doing what yoursquore doing and followthe general advice on oral health tips

Lifestyle FactorsAccess to Dental Care

Difficulty BrushingThe Problem

If you have arthritis or other conditions that limit handmovement you may find it difficult to brush and floss

What can I do

Ask your dentist for ways to overcome this problem Certaindental products are designed to make dental care lesspainful for arthritis sufferers You can try strapping yourtoothbrush to a larger object thatrsquos easier to hold or youcould try an electric toothbrush that will do most of thework for you There are floss holders available in pharmaciesthat make flossing easier but ask your dentist to show youthe correct way to floss

DenturesThe Problem

Sometimes dentures can feel strange at first and it can bedifficult to eat Also as your mouth changes over time yourdentures will need to be reshyfitted or replaced Be carefulwhen wearing dentures because they may make it harderfor you to feel hot foods and liquids and you may not noticethings like bones in your mouth

What can I do

Itrsquos important to keep your dentures (whether theyrsquore thefull set or partial dentures) clean and wellshyfitting so makesure you monitor how they feel and see your dentistregularly (once every year is good but try not to go longerthan two years in between check ups) to ensure theycontinue to fit correctlyAll dentures lose their fit through natural changes in yourmouth Chewing gum biting your nails or grinding yourteeth can accelerate this For example many patientsreport that their full dentures are loose after a period ofrapid weight lossKeep your dentures clean and free from food that can causestains bad breath or swollen gums Brush them every daywith a denture care product and take them out at night toput them in water or a denture cleansing liquidIf you find it difficult to eat with dentures particularly ifyoursquore just starting out with them start off with soft nonshysticky foods Cut your food into small pieces and chewslowly using both sides of your mouth

DietFirst a note on nutrition

As wersquore looking particularly at dental health here wersquollconcentrate mainly on the aspects of food and diet that aredirectly relevant A healthy balanced diet is important nomatter what age you are as good nutrition is thecornerstone of good health For a comprehensive look athow to maintain a healthy diet we recommend you visit thiswebsite for detailed information and help

wwwnutritionaustraliaorg

If your diet is generally good and you have no dental healthissues that are preventing you from eating the right kindsof foods then carry on doing what yoursquore doing and followthe general advice on oral health tips

The Problem

While a bad diet lacking in the essential nutrients can bethe cause of some dental health problems existing dentalissues can also be the cause of a bad diet by preventing youfrom eating certain foods This can become a vicious circleresulting in a gradual decline in both general and dentalhealthOften changes in our lifestyle can affect our diet Somephysical factors include

Changes in chewing ability (possibly as a result ofdentures or dental problems) which means you maylean more towards softer foods that are high incarbohydrates but low in nutritional valueDry mouth (usually a side effect of prescriptionmedicines)Changes in taste and smellSlowing of metabolism and activity levelReduction in nutrient absorption (sometimes causedby prescription medicines)Physical disabilitiesUntreated tooth decayLoose teethMissing teeth that havenrsquot been replaced withbridges dentures or implantsIllshyfitting bridges or dentures

What can I do

Most of the existing dental problems that can be the causeof a bad diet have to be treated by a dentist things liketooth decay missing teeth and illshyfitting bridges ordentures However some of the other things can be spottedearly and dealt with proshyactively before they become aproblemIf you have problems chewing you can

Chop grind or puree tougher foodsUse canned sugarshyfree fruits and vegetablesCook fresh vegetables a little longer to make themsofterEat softer breads and pastaConsider instant breakfast drinks

If you have dry mouth you can

Drink plenty of fluids especially water (avoid sugarydrinks though)Suck on sugarless sweetsChew sugarless gumHold a piece of lemon rind an olive pit or any smallobject in your mouth to stimulate saliva productionTalk to your dentist or doctor about salivasupplements

If your sense of taste or smell has changed you can

Try cooking with stronger flavours like garlic andstrongly flavoured herbs and spicesTry the more strongly flavoured dairy products likeyoghurtTry wholeshygrain breads and raw vegetables as theyhave more flavour

If you have arthritis or a similar disability that makes itdifficult to eat you can

Eat plenty of stews and soupsChop grind or puree tougher foods including meats

Have fruits and vegetables cut into small pieces

General nutrition tips for over 55s

Be as active as possible to encourage your appetiteand maintain muscle massRemain healthy with wellshybalanced eating andregular exerciseEat foods that are nutrient dense rather than energydense including eggs lean meats fish liver low fatdairy foods nuts and seeds legumes fruit andvegetables wholegrain breads and cerealsIf possible try to spend some time outside each dayto boost your vitamin D synthesis for healthy bonesLimit foods that are high in energy and low innutrients such as cakes sweet biscuits and softdrinksChoose foods that are naturally high in fibre toencourage bowel healthLimit the use of table salt especially during cookingChoose from a wide variety of foods and drinkadequate fluids

Other Lifestyle FactorsThe Problem

Many older people lead a healthy and physically active lifeOthers may be isolated or lack the resources and support tolive well Itrsquos worth keeping in mind both for yourself andfor others that you know that there are other reasons forpoor dental health and a poor diet which include

Low incomeAlcohol abuseSmokingIsolation and lonelinessDepressionImproper use of nutritional supplements ndash itrsquosimportant to understand appropriate dosages andother sideshyeffects of supplementsChanges in eating habits ndash this can be as simple asincreasing the frequency of snacks and drinks duringthe day for example drinking more sugared tea andcoffee

What can I do

Your dentist canrsquot help with these issues but by beingaware of the lifestyle factors that could affect your dentaland general health you can be on the look out for earlydanger signs and if necessary seek help to combat theproblem whether itrsquos for yourself or for someone you knowFor useful links to a variety of organizations that can helpwith general health lifestyle and wellshybeing issues visitwwwhealthinsitegovau

ral Health TipsThis is a checklist of general guidelines to help you look afteryour mouth and make sure yoursquore doing everything you canat home to ensure your teeth and gums remain healthyand strong By following these simple steps you cansignificantly reduce the chance of mouth problems later inlife

Visit your dentist

If you can regular visits (at least once a year) can highlightand treat any problems that are developing catching themin their early stages Also alert your dentist to any changes

Have fruits and vegetables cut into small pieces

General nutrition tips for over 55s

Be as active as possible to encourage your appetiteand maintain muscle massRemain healthy with wellshybalanced eating andregular exerciseEat foods that are nutrient dense rather than energydense including eggs lean meats fish liver low fatdairy foods nuts and seeds legumes fruit andvegetables wholegrain breads and cerealsIf possible try to spend some time outside each dayto boost your vitamin D synthesis for healthy bonesLimit foods that are high in energy and low innutrients such as cakes sweet biscuits and softdrinksChoose foods that are naturally high in fibre toencourage bowel healthLimit the use of table salt especially during cookingChoose from a wide variety of foods and drinkadequate fluids

Other Lifestyle FactorsThe Problem

Many older people lead a healthy and physically active lifeOthers may be isolated or lack the resources and support tolive well Itrsquos worth keeping in mind both for yourself andfor others that you know that there are other reasons forpoor dental health and a poor diet which include

Low incomeAlcohol abuseSmokingIsolation and lonelinessDepressionImproper use of nutritional supplements ndash itrsquosimportant to understand appropriate dosages andother sideshyeffects of supplementsChanges in eating habits ndash this can be as simple asincreasing the frequency of snacks and drinks duringthe day for example drinking more sugared tea andcoffee

What can I do

Your dentist canrsquot help with these issues but by beingaware of the lifestyle factors that could affect your dentaland general health you can be on the look out for earlydanger signs and if necessary seek help to combat theproblem whether itrsquos for yourself or for someone you knowFor useful links to a variety of organizations that can helpwith general health lifestyle and wellshybeing issues visitwwwhealthinsitegovau

ral Health TipsThis is a checklist of general guidelines to help you look afteryour mouth and make sure yoursquore doing everything you canat home to ensure your teeth and gums remain healthyand strong By following these simple steps you cansignificantly reduce the chance of mouth problems later inlife

Visit your dentist

If you can regular visits (at least once a year) can highlightand treat any problems that are developing catching themin their early stages Also alert your dentist to any changes

in your medication and ask him or her to perform a routineoral cancer screening at your next visit You can also getyour teeth thoroughly cleaned to remove tartar and plaquePrevention is always better (and cheaper) than cure

Brush twice every day

Brush gently with a soft toothbrush twice a day with afluoride toothpaste Use small circular motions and shortback and forth strokes Take the time to brush carefully andgently along the gum line Lightly brush your tongue or usea tongue cleaner as bacteria can thrive here too

Floss once a day

Floss once a day to remove plaque and leftover food frombetween the teeth that a toothbrush canrsquot reach Make sureyou rinse thoroughly after flossing If you have neverflossed before ask your dentist to show you the correct wayto do it If brushing or flossing makes your gums bleed orhurts your mouth see your dentist Interdental brushescan be used instead of floss to clean between your teeth

Fluoride rinses and gels

You might also want to ask about fluoride rinses or gels asthe regular use of fluoride strengthens your teeth againstcavities As you get older you are more likely to get cavitieswhere old fillings have chipped or where root surfaces areleft unprotected by receding gums Fluoride will help

Snack in moderation

Three meals a day and two snacks is sufficient fornutritional needs Avoid snacks with sugars and starchesand sugary drinks If you do snack between meals rinsewith water afterwards

Quit Smoking

Smoking increases your risk of developing gum disease andoral cancer

Dry Mouth

Saliva plays an essential role in preventing tooth decay byrinsing away food particles and neutralising harmful acidsDry mouth comes with age but can also be caused bymedications like antihistamines decongestantsantidepressants and diuretics This can often be diagnosedby a dentist and a suitable saliva replacement can berecommendedA simple remedy you could try is a small object (for examplelemon rind or an olive pit) held in the mouth to stimulatesaliva It may help to do this or chew sugarless gum beforeand after eating

Eat a healthy balanced diet

Avoid sweet sugary drinks and snacks and choose from awide variety of food groups See more information and linksin the Diet section

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We hope you have enjoyed our newsletter Feel free to giveus your feedback Both positive and negative We always tryto improve ourselves

We wish you all a Merry Christmas and a Happy New YearHave a laugh on us

Forward this to a friend

Copyright copy 2014 Exceldent All rights reservedOur mailing address isreceptionexceldentcomau

unsubscribe |update profile | newsletter 3 | view email in your browser

Feedback

We hope you have enjoyed our newsletter Feel free to giveus your feedback Both positive and negative We always tryto improve ourselves

We wish you all a Merry Christmas and a Happy New YearHave a laugh on us

Forward this to a friend

Copyright copy 2014 Exceldent All rights reservedOur mailing address isreceptionexceldentcomau

unsubscribe |update profile | newsletter 3 | view email in your browser