THE IMPORTANCE OF
ORAL HEALTH CARE
Chebucto Links
Dr. Judy Flecknell
Nova Scotia Dental Association
COMMON ORAL CONDITIONS
AND THE IMPORTANCE OF ORAL HYGIENE
Dental
Decay (caries)
Gingivitis
Periodontal
Dry
Mouth
Disease
DENTAL CARIES AND DIET
THE ROLE OF SUGAR
 Dental
plaque + sugar =ACID. Acid
weakens teeth and causes cavities.
 Avoid
snacking on foods high in sugar and
starch.
 Water
or sugarless gum helps cleanse
your mouth after a sugary snack.
 Dry
mouth increases your risk of cavities.
GINGIVITIS AND PERIODONTAL DISEASE
(GUM DISEASE!)
 Major
cause of tooth loss.
 Risk
of fungal infection (dentures).
 Can
effect general health.
 Cardiac
health, diabetes and increase risk
of pneumonia.
HYGIENE EQUIPMENT
AND PREVENTION AT HOME
Toothbrushes.
Floss.
Mouth
Rinses.
Denture
Care.
DENTAL EXAMINATION
WHAT IS THE DENTIST DOING??
 Caries
detection.
 Periodontal
 Denture
 Oral
exam.
evaluation.
cancer screening .
 Evaluation
and help with specific oral
hygiene needs.
PROBLEM SIGNS TO LOOK FOR?
WHEN SHOULD YOU SEE A DENTIST?
 Regular
examinations every 6 months
 Pain
 Swelling
 Lumps,
 Loose
bumps, changes in color
teeth
 Change
in the fit of a denture
CONTACT


Please make sure you take a copy of the
information package.
Contact information is also provided – or contact
the Nova Scotia Dental Association

420 0088