Five years ago when we first moved to Charlotte, we had to make so many changes – way more than simply our zip code. The list included new driver’s licenses, doctors, dentists, registering to vote, where to shop, and how to get to all these places. Over time, we have come to learn about our new city and can (usually) find wherever it is we need to go. Occasionally, we still rely on our phone apps to get us there.
Finding a Dentist
Our adult children, who have lived here for some time, as well as our neighbors, gave us plenty of advice on both where to go, and where to avoid. For the rest, we relied on good ol’ Google. For some reason, finding a dentist took the longest. We discovered that many people didn’t particularly like their dentist, but rather looked at their twice-a-year visits as a necessary evil. Everyone at the dentist’s office in the town where we moved from was friendly and professional, so the bar was quite high when we began our search here. One day, a new friend gave me a glowing report about her dentist. We made appointments and found them to be all we had hoped for. Success!
Even though it took some doing, it was certainly worth it. Finding a dentist/hygienist is important. Good dental hygiene practices have been linked to lower numbers of many health issues.
Dental Health connection
Several years ago, I was astonished to learn that there is a direct correlation between poor dental hygiene habits and various health problems. Doing some research, I quickly found studies that confirmed the connection and wrote a blog post titled “Brush your teeth to stay healthy”. In that post, I highlighted the connection between poor dental care to arthritis and pneumonia.
I have recently discovered another association – dementia. A new study conducted by the University of Central Lancashire School of Medicine and Dentistry suggests that Poor dental health and gum disease may be linked to Alzheimer’s disease.
Advice from a Dental Hygienist
I called my niece, Hannah Whitten, RDH, who is a Registered Dental Hygienist to ask her about that connection. Many of her clientele where she works include Native American, Hispanic, and underprivileged patients.
I was curious to see if her experience with some of her clients matched the research I was finding. Hannah told me, “Absolutely! The mouth is the gateway to the rest of your body. If your mouth is not healthy, the rest of your body is not likely to be healthy.” She also said that if someone begins good brushing habits at a younger age, they are more likely to prevent periodontal disease. Also, it will be easier to maintain good oral hygiene as a person ages.
I remembered that when my Mama had dementia, I would put the toothpaste on her brush and hand it to her. After that, her muscle memory took over and she brushed her teeth. That might not be the case for others. I mentioned that to Hannah. She told me that the best type of toothbrush for the elderly is an electric one. That way, the brush does the majority of the work. I might add here that I think it’s the best type for me as well, and I don’t have dementia.
Good Dental practices
Most folks generally know that brushing and flossing our teeth is a good idea. Many options for toothpaste, toothbrushes, flosses, and rinses abound, along with ads and commercials touting the benefits of their products. Regular visits for cleanings and checkups are also ways to prevent or fix any issues regarding your teeth. Even if a person has already developed periodontal disease, regular visits to your dentist can help keep it in check.
According to the Mayo Clinic, we should brush our teeth twice a day. They have a saying, “When you brush, don’t rush. Take time to do a thorough job”. My husband and I have a saying as well, “You only have to brush the teeth you want to keep”.
And please, don’t brush off this advice 😉
Has your world been touched by dementia?
My book, “FinishingWell: Finding Joy in Dementia”, is a collection of stories and tips about doing life with my Mama. May it encourage and inspire you to find joy on your own, unique journey. Find our group on Facebook