Dry Mouth
Dry mouth is a normal part of aging? (T/F)
FALSE!
What is plaque?
A film of sticky bacteria that adheres to the tooth and can cause gum disease
What is the name of the infection of gum tissue only that is reversible?
Gingivitis/Gum Disease
(T/F?) Dentures will always fit the same and never need to be adjusted?
False! Dentures should be assessed regularly by a dentist and may need to be adjusted every few years.
How many minutes should you brush your teeth for?
2 minutes
Dry mouth can contribute to what?
Cavities, Periodontal Disease, Difficulties chewing and swallowing
T/F: Age is the main component of developing periodontal disease
False, it is rather plaque that causes periodontal disease
How many hours per day should your dentures be removed?
8 hours per day
Having poor dental health negatively affects your overall health. (T/F?)
Is alcohol containing mouthwash an appropriate remedy for dry mouth?
No, it is best to use an alcohol free mouth rinse as alcohol can dry out the mouth.
What can be used to prevent cavities?
What causes periodontal disease?
Plaque
Diabetes and smoking can increase the risk for periodontal disease.
Dentures should be cleaned with an abrasive or a nonabrasive cleaning agent?
Nonabrasive!
What type of toothpaste is best recommended?
Fluoridated toothpaste
T/F: Sipping on juice throughout the day is an appropriate solution to dry mouth
False, try sipping on water instead as sipping on juice throughout the day can increase your risk of cavities
What causes a cavity?
Bacteria + Fermentable Carbohydrates = Acid
which leads to decay
Periodontal disease involves the loss of what supporting structure for our teeth?
When is the best time suggested time to remove your dentures?
Overnight - because we produce less saliva when asleep allowing the mouth to harbor more bacteria
How often should you brush your teeth?
Twice a day
What is recommended to help relieve dry mouth?
Sugarless candy, sugarless gum, lozenges
What does Xylitol do?
Reduces levels of cavity causing bacteria
What % of older adults are affected by periodontal disease?
68%
T/F: brushing your denture with toothpaste is an appropriate way to clean dentures
False, many toothpastes are too abrasive to be used to brush dentures and can cause damage
What angulation should the toothbrush bristles be at when brushing?
45º