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Oral health
As we age, it is especially important to be aware of the conditions that can affect oral health. Maintaining good oral care is important for healthy aging. Regular check-ups with your dentist certainly help!
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Strategies to promote oral health improve knowledge but not necessarily the oral health of people living in long-term care facilities
International Journal of Nursing Studies (2013) -
Oral allergy syndrome
UpToDate - patient informationOral allergy syndrome is a type of food allergy caused by uncooked fruits, raw vegetables and nuts. The most common symptom is itching of the mouth and throat. In most cases avoiding the foods that cause symptoms is the best treatment. -
Screening for oral cancer: Consumer fact sheet
U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF)There is not enough evidence to know if the benefits of oral cancer screening outweigh the harms for people without symptoms. Reduce your risk of oral cancer: don't smoke and drink alcohol only in moderation. See a doctor if you have unusual lumps or bumps in your mouth or on your lips. -
Oral cryotherapy: Preventing mouth soreness and ulcers in people having cancer treatments
Evidently CochraneOral cryotherapy means keeping the mouth cold with ice, iced water or iced foods. This approach can safely help prevent mouth soreness and ulcers in people having cancer treatments. -
The evidence on flossing
Evidence-based LivingBrush and floss teeth regularly to help prevent gum disease. More good quality research is needed on the benefits of flossing, and whether it helps prevent tooth decay and plaque. -
Oral health education programs for caregivers of older adults lead to improved oral health outcomes in elderly patients
International Journal of Nursing Studies (2015) -
I frequently have a dry mouth. What can I do to relieve this problem?
Mayo ClinicSome tips for temporary relief of dry mouth: chew sugar-free gum, limit caffeine intake, use a humidifier and sip water (more ideas in this resource). The best way to treat dry mouth in the long-term is to address the cause. -
Bruxism (teeth grinding)
Mayo ClinicTooth sensitivity or a sore jaw can be symptoms of teeth grinding. Reduce stress, avoid caffeine and schedule regular dental appointments to help prevent teeth grinding. -
Oral hygiene
Patient.co.ukBrush teeth at least 2 times a day using a soft brush and toothpaste with fluoride for 2 minutes. Replace the brush every 3-4 months. Brush teeth before eating or at least an half hour after eating. Clean in between teeth at least once a day. -
Dental plaque and gum disease
Patient.co.ukPlaque build-up and gum disease can be prevented with good oral hygiene. Brush your teeth for at least two minutes twice a day, and clean between your teeth. -
Antibiotics before the dentist
Berkeley WellnessDoctors may recommend taking antibiotics before going to the dentist to prevent endocarditis (a heart infection), although the risk is low for most people. Very few people should take antibiotics before the dentist. -
Burning mouth syndrome
Mayo ClinicBurning mouth can be uncomfortable and make it difficult to eat or fall asleep. Drink plenty of water and suck on ice, avoid acidic or spicy foods, smoking, alcohol and carbonated drinks and manage your stress. -
Oral health: A window to your overall health
Mayo ClinicPoor oral health may contribute to other more serious illnesses, such as heart disease. Practice good oral hygiene with daily brushing and flossing. Visit your dentist for regular checkups. -
Does whitening toothpaste actually whiten teeth?
Mayo ClinicWhitening toothpaste is useful to remove surface stains on teeth. However, it cannot change the natural colour of your teeth or deep stains. Choose toothpaste approved by a well-known organization. -
5 Bad breath remedies
HealthLineThere are several options available to help get rid of bad breath. Clean your tongue, drink green tea, chew gum, take K12 supplements and swish with oil. More details in this resource. -
Denture care: How do I clean dentures?
Mayo ClinicTo keep your dentures clean, rinse them after eating, soak them overnight and clean them with denture cleaner at least once a day. Don’t use whitening toothpaste, hot water or bleaches. Visit your dentist regularly for check-ups. -
What's the best present you can give your teeth?
Evidently CochraneUse a toothpaste with an ingredient called triclosan to help improve oral health. It may be better that flossing for getting rid of bacteria (plaque), preventing sore and swollen gums (gingivitis) and stopping tooth decay. -
Is an electric toothbrush better than a manual toothbrush?
Mayo ClinicIt's possible to brush your teeth effectively with a manual toothbrush. However, an electric toothbrush can be a useful alternative. If you choose an electric toothbrush, make sure the toothbrush is comfortable and easy to use. -
Bad breath
Mayo ClinicKeep your mouth clean, moist, and avoid a sugary diet to prevent bad breath. Change your toothbrush and get dental checkup regularly. More in this resource about causes, symptoms and treatments for bad breath. -
Diabetes and dental care: Guide to a healthy mouth
Mayo ClinicDiabetes may put you at a higher risk for developing cavities and gum disease. Control your blood sugar levels and practice proper dental care to manage your risk. -
Dental exam
Mayo ClinicRegular dental exams help keep your mouth and teeth healthy and are good for your general health. This resource give suggestions about how to prepare for and what to expect from a dental exam. -
Care of the mouth
Canadian Virtual HospicePeople with advanced illness may experience dry mouth, mouth sores and other discomforts. Mouth care 3-4 times a day can bring comfort, prevent infections and ease absorption of medications. Tips for caregiving in this resource. -
Oral cancer screening (PDQ®): Screening - Patient information [NCI] - Risks of oral cancer screening
WebMDNot all screening tests are helpful, and most have possible risks. Talk to your doctor about your risk for oral cancer and your need for screening tests. -
Root canal treatment
NHS ChoicesTake care of your teeth, avoid sugary foods and quit smoking in order to avoid root canals. You may need a root canal if you have tooth decay or damage. Avoid hard foods if you are recovering from root canal treatment. -
Gum disease
NHS ChoicesSee your dentist if your gums are painful, swollen or if they bleed when you brush your teeth. Untreated gum disease can lead to serious complications. -
Why don't you keep up your smile?
More seniors are keeping their natural teeth longer and have increased oral health care needs. It is important to start planning early for many aspects of your retirement, including your oral health. -
Brushing teeth can save lives! The quality of oral health among seniors points to neglect and shows we need to 'brush up' on mouth care
The importance of brushing your teeth is highly under-rated. In fact not brushing your teeth or maintaining good oral hygiene puts you at risk for serious health complications. This may be the case in some long term care homes where neglect of oral health may be a form of elder abuse.
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