Healthy Smiles Forever

What Dental problems may affect older people?

Attrition

Attrition is a fancy way of describing ordinary wear and tear — decades of chewing and grinding wear down the enamel and cause fine lines in the enamel.

Darkened Teeth

Aging along with attrition, and years of consuming food and beverages that can stain the teeth can lead to discoloration or darkening of the teeth. In some cases, it could indicate a more significant health issue.

Recession                                                                                                                     Your gums may recede (shrink back) as you get older, and your teeth may become a little more sensitive as a result. Your dental team will be able to show you the best brushing methods to keep any gum problems under control and may suggest a mouthwash or toothpaste to deal with the sensitivity and prevent decay in these areas.

Dry Mouth                                                                                                                      Some people take medications that make their mouth dry. Saliva helps to protect your teeth against decay, so if you have less saliva than usual ask your dental team for advice.

Improper Oral Hygiene

It may be more difficult to clean your teeth properly if you have problems with your hands or arms, or if your eyesight is poor. You may need different cleaning aids to use.

You can have a healthy mouth whatever your age with knowledge and good oral care.

Our non-profit dental clinic, Healthy Smiles Forever, is here in the building to assist you in keeping your mouth healthy.  If you need any dental care, information, or dental supplies we are happy to help.  Please call us at 931-0484 or let the court nurse or front desk know to contact us to make an appointment.

Watch for changes in your mouth

Your risk of getting oral cancer increases as you get older.

See a dentist or doctor if you have any of these symptoms for more than 2 weeks:

• A spot in your mouth, lip, or throat that feels uncomfortable or sore
• A lump or thick area in your mouth, lip, or throat
• A white or red patch in your mouth
• Trouble chewing, swallowing, or moving your jaw or tongue
• Numbness in your tongue or mouth
• Swelling in your jaw
• Pain in 1 ear without hearing loss

Our non-profit dental clinic, Healthy Smiles Forever, is here in the building to assist you in keeping your mouth healthy.  If you need any dental care, information, or dental supplies we are happy to help.  Please call us at 931-0484 or let the court nurse or front desk know to contact us to make an appointment.

MARCH IS THE TIME TO RECOGNIZE OUR AMAZING DENTAL TEAM HERE AT HEALTHY SMILES FOREVER

Dentists are Doctors who specialize in Oral Health. March 6^th is National Dentist’s Day.  Dental health is integral to our overall health, so we salute them not just for one day but for keeping our teeth looking good and keeping our bodies in tip-top shape all year.

Dental assistants apply their skills and training to make your visit safe, efficient and as pleasant as possible. March 5-11, is Dental Assistants Recognition Week, a time to remember the contributions dental assistants make to the dental profession and the dental health care of all the residents here in our facility.

Our non-profit dental clinic, Healthy Smiles Forever, is here in the building to assist you in keeping your mouth healthy.  If you need any dental care, information, or dental supplies we are happy to help.  Please call us at 931-0484 or let the court nurse or front desk know to contact us to make an appointment.

How is Heart Disease Linked to Gum Disease?

Gum disease (periodontal disease) and heart disease share many common risk factors. Bacterial infections in the mouth can travel through the bloodstream and infect other parts of the body. Bacteria related to gum disease can lead to inflammation of the heart valves and blood vessels, leading to hypertension and other conditions linked to heart disease.

 Keep your gums and teeth healthy.  Our non-profit dental clinic, Healthy Smiles Forever, is here at the facility If you need any dental care, information, or dental supplies we are happy to help.  Please call us at 931-0484 or let the court nurse or front desk know to contact us to make an appointment

The February 2022 National Children’s Dental Health Month is brought to you by the ADA. This month-long national health observance brings together thousands of dedicated professionals, healthcare providers, and educators to promote the benefits of good oral health to children, their caregivers, teachers and many others.