Dental health for older people

Good dental health in older people supports overall health and wellbeing. It is important you continue to take good care of your teeth and gums when you are older.

Drugs

Using cannabis or methamphetamine can cause problems in your mouth. Cannabis can increase your risk of developing gum disease, and methamphetamine can lead to tooth decay.

First aid for teeth

Accidents involving your teeth can happen. Find out what to do about knocked out teeth, broken or chipped teeth, or displaced teeth.

Flossing

Dental floss or inter-dental brushes are used to clean between teeth.

Fluoride

Fluoride is a natural substance. It helps protect our teeth by making them stronger, and reducing tooth decay.

Oral hygiene and saliva management

Oral hygiene means keeping your mouth (teeth, tongue, gums and roof of your mouth) clean and healthy. Good oral hygiene maintains healthy teeth and limits bacterial growth your mouth.

Smoking and oral health

How smoking affects your oral health and increases your risk of developing other problems.

Wisdom teeth

Most people have 32 teeth by the time they are 18. At around age 18 to 20 the third molars (wisdom teeth) are the last 4 teeth to come in. Wisdom teeth may have to be removed to correct a problem or to prevent future problems.