A smile is always in style

If eyes are the window to your soul, the mouth is like a window to your health according to Dr. Marianne Howell, a Dental Health Consultant with Alberta Health Services. "So many developments in oral health have been made during the last 10 years," said Dr. Howell, "that we are beginning to understand how much oral health is connected to general health." Dental health professionals are using this knowledge to help expectant mothers, infants, children and seniors maintain their oral health for years to come.

Expectant mothers may be surprised to learn that the health of their teeth can affect their pregnancy and the health of their baby. Gum disease is associated with high blood pressure during pregnancy and pre-term births. In fact, a mother with dental decay can transfer bacteria that cause decay to her child. A dental check-up and cleaning, along with regular personal oral hygiene care, is important during pregnancy.

Once the baby is born, oral health should still be a priority for parents. "Even though baby teeth fall out, parents need to establish good habits at an early age to maintain oral health through their child's life," said Dr. Howell. Most parents know that sugar can cause tooth decay but they may not realize that bacteria metabolizes sugar which creates acid and decay.

The following types of activities where bacteria can be exchanged are not recommended:

• Sharing utensils when sampling food,
• Sharing toothbrushes, and
• Using your saliva to clean items, such as a soother, that fall on the floor.

As soon as a child's teeth appear, parents can start brushing their teeth. The Canadian Dental Association recommends that adults brush the teeth of children less than 3 years of age using a minimal amount or "smear" of fluoride toothpaste. Children 3 - 6 years of age should be assisted during brushing and only use a small amount (eg. pea sized portion) of fluoride toothpaste.

The association also recommends that infants see a dental health professional by the age of one. "If parents establish good habits early on, they can minimize the development of oral health problems in the future," said Dr. Howell.

At the opposite end of the spectrum, Dr. Howell finds there are still many misconceptions regarding the importance of oral health for seniors. "Advances in dentistry mean that people can keep their teeth for a lifetime," she said, "but that's only possible if you maintain your oral health from the start." Gum disease is one of the main reasons adults lose their teeth.

Warning signs of gum disease include:

• Bleeding when you brush,
• Loose or sensitive teeth,
• Receding gums, and
• Bad breath that won't go away.

Unfortunately, the risk of developing oral cancer increases with age. Seniors should check their mouth regularly for white or red patches, small lumps and areas of thickening, and/or any numbness, tingling or unexplained bleeding. Consult a dental health professional if you have any concerns about gum disease or oral cancer.

Ultimately, good oral health is important for any age group. The following tips should be followed by anyone to maintain good oral health: 

• Floss daily and brush your teeth and tongue twice a day with a fluoridated toothpaste,
• Get regular dental check-ups and cleanings,
• Eat a healthy diet and limit foods and beverages that are acidic and high in sugar, and
• Wear a mouth guard when you play sports.

For more information on dental health programs available in your community, please contact Health Link for Edmonton and area call 780-408-LINK (5465); for Calgary call 403-943-LINK; and if outside the local calling area, call toll-free 1-866-408-LINK (5465).