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"In addition, people with dry mouth should see their dentist more frequently for cleanings, maybe even more often than twice a year," Dr. Sconzo says. "Regular dental cleanings help prevent tooth decay, gingivitis and periodontal disease." Brushing teeth at least twice a day, followed by flossing and rinsing the mouth with a fluoridated mouthwash that does not contain alcohol can also help minimize the plaque and tartar deposits that dry mouth promotes. "It's especially important that people with dry mouth take care of their teeth or dentures and keep them clean," Dr. Baccash says. "They should also avoid caffeine and sugar because these substances can increase dryness and invite more tooth- and gum-damaging bacteria to flourish in the mouth." I N T E R T W I N E D : D E N T A L A N D G E N E R A L H E A L T H As people continue to live longer, it has become increasingly important to recognize how general wellness and oral health tie together. In some cases, oral health conditions can signal a medical health issue. For instance, when teeth become weak and brittle, this can be a sign that osteoporosis may be present in the body. "Dental healthcare professionals are on the front lines when it comes to identifying osteoporosis in its earliest stages in older adults," says Dr. Baccash. Sometimes, having a medical condition signals a need to be more diligent about oral health. For instance, people with diabetes should pay extra attention to their oral health because higher glucose levels in the body make it easier for bacteria to flourish in the mouth. That increased bacteria, known as plaque, can lead to inflammation and infection of the gumline, which is called gingivitis. If gingivitis is not treated, it advances to periodontal disease, which causes inflammation and infection to spread under the gumline and lead to tooth and bone loss. Conversely, periodontal disease can also affect blood sugar levels, causing them to spike higher in people with diabetes, making the condition harder to control. Periodontal disease should also be monitored closely due to increasing evidence in a number of studies that link it to heart disease. The studies show that if bacteria enters the body through the gums, the bacteria can then enter the bloodstream and cause inflammation. That inflammation within the bloodstream is often present in heart disease. "I always emphasize how important oral health is in the big picture of wellness and vice versa," Dr. Sconzo says. "As people age, it becomes more important than ever that they check in with their doctors and their dentists for regular checkups." P H Y S I C I A N RE F E R R A L / / 718 . 49 9. C A RE 25