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Healthy Mouth Healthy Brain
Maintaining sound oral health is an important part of healthy aging. Having good oral health can lower your risk for chronic diseases like heart disease and diabetes, and it may lower your risk for Alzheimer’s and other related dementias. Research shows an association between gum disease and Alzheimer's, possibly due to bacteria moving from the mouth to the brain. The good news is that taking steps to treat oral disease and maintain a healthy mouth can go a long way toward reducing your risk.
Tips for a Healthy Mouth:
· Maintain good oral hygiene by brushing your teeth twice daily with fluoride toothpaste. Drinking fluoridated tap water helps prevent cavities.
· If you have dentures, remember to clean them with a denture cleanser (not toothpaste) after eating and to soak them every night in a cleansing solution
· If you have trouble brushing due to arthritis or other mobility issues, ask your dental health care providers about an assistive device such as an electric toothbrush.
· Dry mouth is a common side effect of many medications. Limiting sugary substances and caffeine, and sipping water to stay hydrated may provide relief.
· Losing teeth as you age is avoidable. Get treatment for your decayed, lost, or loose teeth. Talk to your dental healthcare provider to find out if new treatment options for treating cavities without needles or drilling (like silver diamine fluoride) may be right for you.
· Visit your dental provider at least once a year to get an exam, including an oral cancer screening.
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