How to take care of your teeth and dentures

 It is important to maintain good dental health as you get older. Here you will find information on how you can look after your teeth or dentures.

• Regular dental check-ups are important to ensure you prevent against tooth decay and it is recommended that you visit your dentist at least once a year. Tooth decay can lead to pain, infection, broken or discoloured teeth and may cause bad breath, stomach complaints and other problems.
  Signs of tooth decay
  
• White, brown or yellow spots on your teeth
• Sensitivity to hot or cold foods
• Toothache.

Preventing tooth decay

• Reduce your intake of sugar-rich foods and drinks
• Brush your teeth at least twice a day – for two to three minutes
• Use a toothbrush with soft rounded bristles
• Replace your toothbrush every two to three months.
  Dentures
  It is important to visit your dentist regularly to have your dentures checked because your gums change as you get older and this can make dentures become loose. It is recommended that you visit your dentist at least once a year.
  Poorly fitting dentures may stop you enjoying your food by preventing you from chewing properly. This in turn can lead to stomach upset.
   If you have not worn your dentures for some time due to discomfort, you should visit your dentist. During the visit, your dentist will give you a check up and if necessary organise a set of dentures that fit you properly.
   Caring for your dentures
  
• Brush all the surfaces daily with a toothbrush - to remove any loose debris
• Soak them daily in denture cleaning solution
• Brush them daily using a toothbrush and toothpaste.Gum disease
  Gum disease is caused by a build up of bacteria called plaque. This bacteria forms on the teeth and gums but is preventable through good dental hygiene and regular dental check-ups.
   Signs of gum disease
  
• Teeth that look long – due to receding gums
• Gums that bleed when flossed or brushed
• Persistent unpleasant taste or bad breath
• Teeth which have changed position
• Tender and painful gums
• Swollen red gums
• Loose teeth.

Preventing gum disease

• Brush your teeth at least twice per day
• Floss between your teeth regularly
• Visit your dentist regularly.
  Dental health
  It is important to maintain good dental health, especially if you are having a hip replacement or heart surgery. Poor dental health may mean your surgery will have to be postponed.
  Smoking is harmful to all aspects of your health, including your dental health and causes:
  
• Bad breath
• Unpleasant taste
• Tartar on teeth
• Stains on teeth, tongue and dentures
• Gum disease.