1. T HE I MPORTANCE OF O RAL HEALTH C ARE Chebucto Links Dr. Judy Flecknell Nova Scotia Dental Association

2. C OMMON O RAL C ONDITIONS AND THE IMPORTANCE OF ORAL HYGIENE Dental Decay (caries) Gingivitis Periodontal Disease Dry Mouth

3. D ENTAL C ARIES AND D IET 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.

4. G INGIVITIS AND P ERIODONTAL D ISEASE (G UM D ISEASE !) Major cause of tooth loss. Risk of fungal infection (dentures). Can effect general health. Cardiac health, diabetes and increase risk of pneumonia.

6. H YGIENE E QUIPMENT AND PREVENTION AT HOME Toothbrushes. Floss. Mouth Rinses. Denture Care.

7. D ENTAL E XAMINATION W HAT IS THE D ENTIST D OING ?? Caries detection. Periodontal exam. Denture evaluation. Oral cancer screening. Evaluation and help with specific oral hygiene needs.

8. P ROBLEM S IGNS TO LOOK FOR ? W HEN SHOULD YOU SEE A DENTIST ? Regular examinations every 6 months Pain Swelling Lumps, bumps, changes in color Loose teeth Change in the fit of a denture

9. C ONTACT 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