Many people think of dentures and or partials when they think of replacing missing teeth. But more patients are choosing dental implants to replace missing teeth because they can look and feel more natural than dentures.

Studies suggest that women who want to have a baby should look after their oral health care.  A fertility expert stated in a meeting in Sweden.  During the meeting, delegates heard about preliminary research that found for the first time, from when she starts trying to conceive, a woman’s changes of falling pregnant can depend on how well she looks after her teeth and gums.

For may seniors they suffer from arthritis and or decreased mobility which makes brushing their teeth more difficult for them.  If you are experiencing that issue try consider switching to an electric or “powered” toothbrush.

According to recent studies, our oral health deteriorates during hospitalization and is associated with an increased risk of hospital acquired infections and reduced quality of life.  The study published in the Journal of Clinical Periodontology  provides the latest evidence that oral health care is being overlooked in hospitals, with potential serious consequences.  The research identified increases in plaque accumulation and gingival and mucosal inflammation.  The finding were the worst amongst patients who required help with their breathing.

If you have dentures be sure to visit your dentist for proper care and maintenance. Using an over the counter denture repair kit is temporary solution at best. If your dentures start to fit funny, be sure to see a dentist for a professional denture reline.

Links are being found that show obesity can effect your oral health. According to a recent study,  it revealed the deeper the periodontal pockets, the higher the proportion of subjects with a body mass index of 30 or over, which according to the World Health Organization is generally consider to be obese.

Your senior dental visit will likely consist of the following:

* X-rays: Normally given at least one a year though they may be needed sooner depending on the status of your dental health. They are used to spot problems undetectable to the eye such as bone deterioration below the gum line.

* Dental Exam: During a dental exam your dentist will check your mouth, teeth and gums for signs of cavities, a loose tooth filling and gum disease. He or she will also look at your neck, lymph glands, cheeks, tongue and lips to check for signs of infection or oral cancer.

* Dental Cleaning: You will also normally have a basic dental cleaning where the dentist or dental hygienist will scrape off any dental plaque or tartar from above and below your gum line, then polish and floss your teeth.

* Treatment Plan: Depending on what the dentist observes during the exam, he or she will recommend a dental treatment plan. Your dentist can also review proper self-care tips for brushing, flossing and caring for dentures.

Improving dental care though improving technology. A team of scientists from the University of Liverpool has won an award for developing a device that can identify early tooth decay and plaque before it is visible to the human eye.   The innovation, “iDentifi” comprises a clinical digital camera which incorporates qualitative light induced fluorescence technology to take images of the mouth using blue light and special filters which can show up cavities and plaque

It is important to talk to your dentist and keep them informed. Make sure to mention any sores, swelling or pain you might be experiencing in your mouth. Let your dentist know if you smoke, have any allergies or have any existing medical conditions. Also, tell your dentist about all the medications you take, both prescription and over-the-counter. Some can cause problems such as dry mouth; others may interact with medications your dentist may prescribe. An informed dentist is able to best treat you and maintain your good dental health.

Gene combination identified as a risk factor in success of dental implants.  The health of the surrounding tissue and gums will affect the success of dental implants.      Therefore identifying and reducing the risk factors is a key step in the process of dental implants.  Now a combination of genes has been identified as a possible indicator of greater tissue destruction leading to a negative outcome for implant patients.    A article in the Journal of Oral Implantology it reports on a study of individuals with the combination of interleukin (IL) 1 allele 2 IL-1A-899 and IL-IB+3954. These people are “genotype positive” and are susceptible to increased periodontal tissue destruction

It is a good idea to choose a time for your dental appointment when you are normally at your best, whether that is first thing in the morning or later in the afternoon, to ensure that you are feeling your most energetic and least stressed.

If you have any special needs, suffer from dental anxiety or have a disability, let the staff know in advance so they can better accommodate you. Also if you feel you will need more time then make sure they book your appointment accordingly so that you are not feeling rushed at your appointment.

More reasons why dental and oral health care is important to maintain.  Studies suggest erectile dysfunction can be linked to gum disease.  Research carried out on 70 subject showed a correlation between gum disease and the ability to achieve an erection.

The data indicates that as the severity of erectile dysfunction increased, so did the prevalence of chronic periodontitis (gum disease) More than four out of five men 81% with severe erectile dysfunction hand gum disease. In comparison in cases of mile erectile dysfunction, the incidence of gum disease was less then two in five men.      Preventive dental care starts at home by brushing and flossing.

However seeing a dentist at least twice a year is an important part of oral and dental health that is linked to so many other overall health care issues

If you have a dental PPO insurance plan, preventive care such as dental exams X-rays and basic cleaning is normally covered at around 80 – 100 percent depending on how long you may of had the plan.  If you are beyond your plans waiting periods and are having major dental services, make sure to ask for an estimate of costs so you will be prepared for any out-of-pocket expenses. A lower cost dental insurance plan with fewer limitations would be an HMO dental insurance plan. HMO dental plans are normally fee base and therefore you know your cost before having dental work done.

If you do not have dental insurance, dental offices will sometimes have payment plans for care or offer discounts for cash payments. You may also want to look into a low cost dental discount plan that also helps to reduce your dental care cost.

Assurant Employee Benefits is working with employers to help customize and target efforts to recruit the dentists who matter most to their employees. This helps ensure good dental and financial health. On average employees that use in-network dentists save, about 30% on dental fees when compared to non-network dentists’ costs.

By having regular dental check ups it allows your dentist to check for problems before they become too serious. Seniors should visit their dentist at least twice a year. However, those with ongoing dental concerns such as the need for gum disease treatment may need to go more often.

Even if you no longer have your natural teeth, you should still see the dentist at least once a year. The dentist can check to make sure your dentures fit well and are in good condition. Your dentist will also examine your mouth, gums, cheek and tongue for signs of oral cancer, which is more common after the age of 40